By Martin Graham
With the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico set to begin on 11 June, several leading internationals are struggling with injuries, leaving coaches facing difficult selection calls. The list of sidelined players continues to grow, raising doubts about squad strength just weeks before the competition begins.
Spain was given a scare when Lamine Yamal suffered a hamstring issue while scoring for Barcelona against Celta Vigo. Although his club expects him to recover in time, his situation highlights the fragile fitness of key players at this stage of the season.
Germany are also dealing with uncertainty, as their first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is attempting to return from a long-term hamstring problem. Limited preparation has reduced his chances of being ready for the opening fixtures, which would be a significant blow for a team that relies heavily on experienced performers in major tournaments.
Major absences already confirmed
Some nations have already been dealt definitive setbacks, with injuries ruling players out entirely. Brazil will be without Rodrygo after the forward suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear in March, removing one of their most dangerous attacking threats from contention.
France has also lost Hugo Ekitike, whose ruptured Achilles tendon will keep him out until 2027. The striker had been a standout performer for Liverpool this season, contributing 17 goals and six assists, making his absence particularly damaging.
These confirmed losses underline the physical toll of the season and leave national teams needing to adjust plans well in advance of the tournament.
Key players racing against time
Several high-profile names remain in a race to prove their fitness before final squad decisions are made. Argentina defender Cristian Romero is out for the rest of the Premier League campaign with a knee injury, though there is hope he will return in time. However, concerns persist about his lack of match sharpness despite his importance to the team’s defensive structure.
Brazil defender Eder Militao is also sidelined with a hamstring tear that has ended his club season, but he is targeting a comeback for the World Cup. Medical staff remain cautious due to his recent history of muscle problems.
England’s Reece James faces another setback with ongoing hamstring issues, putting his participation in doubt once again after missing previous major tournaments. Meanwhile, Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino continues to recover from a fractured foot, with Spain wary of rushing him back too soon.
Uncertainty around fitness and form
Other players are dealing with injuries that leave their availability unclear. Mohammed Kudus has been out for more than three months with a quad problem that may require surgery, placing Ghana’s creative options at risk. Japan captain Wataru Endo is recovering from knee and ankle issues following surgery, and his absence would leave a leadership void in midfield.
Canada’s Alphonso Davies is once again battling recurring muscle problems, raising concerns about whether he can perform at full capacity. His pace is central to his team’s approach, making his condition particularly significant.
Young talents also face uncertainty. Arda Guler’s hamstring injury has ended his domestic campaign, and although he could return in time, questions remain about his readiness after limited playing time. Similarly, Estevao Willian is recovering from a hamstring tear and will not play again this season, leaving Brazil to assess whether he can contribute without recent match experience.