Several high-profile football players, including Lionel Messi, are now grappling with injuries just weeks before the start of the 2026 World Cup. This widespread physical strain on key athletes injects a layer of uncertainty into the tournament, raising questions about player preparedness and the impact of demanding schedules.
Messi, the celebrated Argentine forward, recently came off the field during an Inter Miami match on May 24, citing what medical tests later confirmed as muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. His departure, visible signs of discomfort gripping the back of his leg, has sparked significant concern for both his club and the Argentine national team. The specifics of a recovery timeline remain unclear, adding to the speculation surrounding his condition. This marks the latest in a string of physical setbacks for prominent figures heading into the global competition.
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The list of sidelined or doubtful players is substantial and diverse:
Argentina: Cristian Romero is nursing a knee injury, joining Messi's hamstring concern.
Spain: Lamine Yamal, a rising star, experienced a muscle injury in his left leg, though he is expected to recover in time for the World Cup.
United States: Midfielder Johnny Cardoso sprained his right ankle five weeks prior, while Cameron Carter-Vickers and Patrick Agyemang are dealing with Achilles issues.
Brazil: Éder Militão is sidelined with a hamstring problem, and Rodrygo has a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
England: Ben White has a medial ligament issue.
France: Hugo Ekitike is struggling with an Achilles tendon problem.
Germany: Serge Gnabry has an adductor injury.
Netherlands: Xavi Simons also has an ACL injury.
Algeria: Goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine Zidane, is uncertain to play due to a facial injury sustained last month.
These absences and concerns are occurring against a backdrop of increasing warnings from players and coaches about the strain of an "ever-packed schedule." The upcoming expanded World Cup follows a significantly revamped and expanded Club World Cup the previous year, a confluence of events that some believe is contributing to the current injury crisis. Messi's situation is particularly acute, as this tournament may represent his last World Cup appearance. Argentina is scheduled to begin its campaign on June 16 against Algeria.
