The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be one of the biggest sporting events in history, but several high-profile players will sadly miss the tournament due to serious injuries. National teams across the globe have been forced to adjust their plans after losing key stars just weeks before kickoff.
From ACL tears to Achilles tendon ruptures and major muscle injuries, these setbacks have changed the outlook for several countries hoping to make a deep run in the competition.
Brazil Hit Hard by Multiple Absences
Brazil have suffered some of the most significant injury losses ahead of the tournament. Real Madrid defender Eder Militao has been ruled out after requiring surgery for a serious hamstring injury. His absence weakens Brazil’s defensive options considerably.
The Seleção will also be without exciting young forward Rodrygo, who suffered an ACL tear in March. The injury ended his World Cup hopes and will likely keep him sidelined into next season.
Teenage sensation Estevao was also left out after suffering a hamstring injury that prevented him from earning a place in the final squad.
France and Germany Lose Key Attackers
France received disappointing news when Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike tore his Achilles tendon during a Champions League match. The injury is one of the most difficult for professional athletes to recover from and has ended his World Cup dream.
Germany will also be missing experienced winger Serge Gnabry. The Bayern Munich star suffered a severe adductor tear and underwent surgery, leaving him unavailable for the summer tournament.
Spain and Netherlands Suffer Major Setbacks
Spain’s versatile attacker Fermin Lopez fractured the fifth metatarsal in his foot late in the La Liga season. Despite efforts to recover in time, the injury ruled him out of the World Cup squad.
The Netherlands lost one of their brightest talents when Xavi Simons suffered a devastating ACL injury. The Tottenham midfielder is expected to miss several months, including the World Cup and part of the upcoming club season.
United States Misses Important Contributors
Co-host nation United States will be without striker Patrick Agyemang after an Achilles tendon rupture ended his breakthrough campaign.
Midfielder Johnny Cardoso also faces a lengthy recovery after surgery for a severe ankle injury. His absence removes an important midfield option for the USMNT.
Other Notable Injury Absences
Several other international stars have also been ruled out. Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu suffered an ACL tear, while Japan winger Kaoru Mitoma was left out after a hamstring problem.
England defender Ben White, Scotland midfielder Billy Gilmour, Austria playmaker Christoph Baumgartner, and Bosnia and Herzegovina striker Haris Tabakovic will also miss the tournament due to injury concerns.
Final Thoughts
Injuries are an unfortunate part of football, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup will proceed without several players who were expected to play major roles for their nations. While new stars will have the opportunity to step forward, fans will undoubtedly miss seeing these talented players compete on football’s biggest stage.
As the tournament approaches, teams will hope to avoid any further injury setbacks and arrive with their strongest possible squads.