Every FIFA World Cup build-up brings excitement, but it also brings fear for national teams once injuries start appearing. With the 2026 tournament getting closer, several major players are already dealing with serious fitness problems, and some have reportedly been ruled out completely.
A few absences could have a huge impact on the competition. Some of these players are not just starters for their countries they are the difference-makers teams build around.
Players Set To Miss The FIFA World Cup
Rodrygo
Brazil are expected to be without Rodrygo, which is a massive loss for the FIFA World Cup considering how important he has become in recent years. His ability to play across the front line gave Brazil flexibility in attack, especially in big games.
Serge Gnabry
Germany will reportedly head into the tournament without Serge Gnabry. Injuries have slowed him down over the last few seasons, and losing his experience and direct attacking style is far from ideal for the German side.
Xavi Simons
The Netherlands could also be missing one of their brightest young stars. Xavi Simons had been expected to play a major role for the Dutch national team after his rapid rise at club level.
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Hugo Ekitiké
France have plenty of attacking depth, but Hugo Ekitike missing the competition would still be disappointing. The striker had started building momentum before injury problems interrupted things.
Éder Militão
Militao’s absence may hurt Brazil the most defensively. The Real Madrid centre-back has been one of their most reliable defenders and brings experience in high-pressure matches.
🚨🚑 Stars who will miss and could miss the World Cup:
❌ Will miss:
· Rodrygo
· Serge Gnabry
· Xavi Simons
· Hugo Ekitike
· Eder Militao❓ Could miss it or have concerning injuries:
· Estevao
· Lamine Yamal
· Alphonso Davies
· Cristian Romero
· Ter Stegen pic.twitter.com/QjYcqmVhOE— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) May 11, 2026
Players Still Racing Against Time
Estêvão Willian
There is still uncertainty around Estevao’s condition. The teenager is viewed as one of Brazil’s biggest young talents, and fans are hoping he recovers in time.
Lamine Yamal
Spain will be desperate to have Lamine Yamal available. Despite his age, he has already become one of the most dangerous attacking players in European football.
Alphonso Davies
Canada’s chances would take a huge hit without Alphonso Davies. His pace and attacking threat make him the face of the national team.
Cristian Romero
Argentina are also watching Romero’s recovery carefully. He has become one of the leaders of their defence and plays a huge role in the team’s balance.
Marc-André ter Stegen
Germany could face another problem if Ter Stegen is not fully fit for the FIFA World Cup. The Girona goalkeeper has consistently been one of the best shot-stoppers in Europe.
There is still time before the World Cup begins, but every national team will now be hoping their biggest stars can stay healthy before the FIFA World Cup tournament starts.
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