For many footballers, playing at the FIFA World Cup is the ultimate career milestone. But as preparations intensify for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, injuries have already ruled several players out of contention.
With national teams set to submit provisional squad lists soon, a number of stars will miss out after suffering long-term setbacks during the 2025–26 season.
Samu Aghehowa (Spain)
Porto striker Samu Aghehowa’s impressive season came to a halt after he suffered a torn ACL in February. The 21-year-old, who had been in fine scoring form, will now miss the chance to feature for Spain on the global stage.
Patrick Agyemang (United States)
The United States forward has been ruled out after sustaining a serious Achilles tendon injury while playing for Derby County. Agyemang had been building momentum with the national team before the setback.
Valentin Carboni (Argentina)
Midfielder Valentin Carboni, on loan at Racing, tore his ACL in February, ending his hopes of making Argentina’s squad. The 21-year-old had already earned senior caps and was seen as a promising option
Cameron Carter-Vickers (United States)
Defender Cameron Carter-Vickers remains a major doubt after undergoing Achilles surgery earlier in the season. While he has not completely given up hope, his chances of representing the United States appear slim.
Hugo Ekitike (France)
Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during a Champions League clash, a devastating injury that has ruled him out of contention for France.
Juan Foyth (Argentina)
World Cup winner Juan Foyth sustained an Achilles injury in January while playing for Villarreal. The defender will miss the opportunity to represent Argentina again on the World Cup stage.
Luis Ángel Malagón (Mexico)
Mexico goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón is currently recovering from an Achilles tear, dealing a significant blow to Mexico as they prepare to host the tournament.
Joaquin Panichelli (Argentina)
Strasbourg forward Joaquin Panichelli has been ruled out after suffering a second ACL injury in two years. The setback ends his hopes of breaking into Argentina’s World Cup squad.
Rodrygo (Brazil)
Brazilian star Rodrygo will miss the tournament after tearing his ACL during a league match for Real Madrid. His absence is a major loss for Brazil.
Mohammed Salisu (Ghana)
Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after an ACL injury in January, ruling him out of contention for Ghana.
