Several high-profile players are injured as the World Cup approaches, creating challenges for international managers. Lamine Yamal of Spain is among those racing to recover in time for the tournament starting on June 11.
Key points
Several high-profile players are injured ahead of the World Cup.
Lamine Yamal suffered a hamstring injury while playing for Barcelona.
International managers face tough decisions as the tournament nears.
The World Cup starts on June 11, 2026.
The tournament will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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Lamine YamalBarcelonaWorld Cup 2026
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona scores the team's first goal from penalty spot during the LaLiga match between FC Barcelona and RC Celta de Vigo at Spotify Camp Nou on April 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain.
With the World Cup fast approaching, several high-profile players are sidelined or in a race against time to prove their fitness.
Injuries have left international managers facing difficult decisions as the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico draws closer to its 11 June start.
Lamine Yamal caused Spain concern when he suffered a hamstring injury in scoring for Barcelona against Celta Vigo on Wednesday - although his club expect him to be fit for the World Cup.
Nonetheless, he has added his name to a growing list of key players with injury troubles as the tournament nears.
Germany's first-choice goalkeeper is fighting to be recover from a long-term hamstring problem. The injury has severely limited his preparation, and his chances of being ready for the opening matches in June are fading. His absence would be a major setback for a squad built around experience at major tournaments.
Brazil face a significant blow with the Real Madrid forward ruled out after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in March. The five-time world champions will be without one of their most explosive attacking options, with his injury ending any hopes of a tournament comeback.
The Argentina defender is out for the remainder of the Premier League season with a knee injury. The 27-year-old was visibly upset as he limped off following a collision with goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky during Tottenham's Premier League defeat at Sunderland in April.
While there is optimism he will recover in time, concerns remain over his lack of recent match action. His aggression and leadership are central to Argentina's defensive set-up.
Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool is injured during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Liverpool FC and Paris Saint-Germain FC at Anfield on April 14, 2026 in Liverpool, England.
France striker Ekitike ruptured his Achilles tendon in April and is not expected to return to action until 2027, ending his World Cup hopes entirely.
Ekitike joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt last July and has been one of their standout performers in a difficult season for the club, with 17 goals and six assists in all competitions.
Kudus is awaiting further assessment on a quad injury that could require surgery. Ghana risk losing their key creative figure if recovery takes longer than expected. His availability remains uncertain as crucial decisions loom. The Ghana international has been out for more than three months after limping out of Spurs' 1-1 draw with Sunderland on 4 January.
Eder Militao (Real Madrid and Brazil)
Militao has been ruled out for the rest of Real Madrid's season after suffering a hamstring tear. The 28-year-old centre-back is targeting a return for the World Cup, but Brazil's medical staff are cautious given his recent history of muscle injuries.
England defender James is once again dealing with hamstring issues while sidelined at Chelsea. Having missed the past two major tournaments, his hopes depend on avoiding further setbacks. The 26-year-old sustained the injury in a 1-0 Premier League defeat by Newcastle in March. Any delay in recovery would put his place in serious doubt.
Canada's talisman is once again struggling with the recurring muscle issues that have plagued his recent seasons at Bayern Munich. His explosive pace is central to Canada's threat, but his body seems to be pushing back at the worst possible moment. If he is not fully fit, Canada's chances take a massive hit.
Mikel Merino of Arsenal inspects the pitch whilst on crutches alongside team mates Max Dowman prior to the Carabao Cup Final match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on March 22, 2026 in London, England.
Mikel Merino (left) has a fractured foot that has kept him on the sidelines since February [Getty Images]
The Arsenal midfielder has been a steady presence for Spain, but a fractured foot has kept him on the sidelines since February. Spain's medical staff are wary of a premature return.
Japan captain Endo is coping with a double setback involving his knee and ankle since sustaining the injury that left him in need of surgery during February's match against Sunderland. He is set to miss the rest of Liverpool's season and his absence for Japan would leave a big gap in terms of midfield leadership and experience.
A hamstring injury has brought Guler's domestic season to an end. Although he might recover in time for the World Cup, concerns remain over his sharpness and readiness with limited time to regain match fitness.
Estevao Willian (Chelsea and Brazil)
The Chelsea teenage forward is recovering from a hamstring tear and will not feature again for the Blues this season. Brazil remain hopeful, but his lack of recent football makes selection uncertain. The final decision is likely to hinge on his progress in the coming weeks.
