The 2026 FIFA World Cup is supposed to be the stage where the best players in the world come together at their peak. It’s what every footballer works toward for years. But as the tournament gets closer, the conversation is slowly shifting from excitement to concern. Injuries, especially late in the season, are starting to take a serious toll, and some of the biggest names could now miss out entirely.
This is the worst kind of timing for any player. One moment you’re playing regularly and building form, the next you’re dealing with months of recovery and watching the FIFA World Cup from the sidelines. For teams, it changes everything too. Plans have to be adjusted, roles reshuffled, and in some cases, entire systems reworked.
Which big names could miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to injuries?
Lamine Yamal – Injury doubt
Yamal’s situation is still unclear, but it’s definitely worrying. The Barcelona youngster suffered a hamstring injury during a game against Celta Vigo, and it happened right after he scored. Early signs point toward a possible tear, though final confirmation is still pending. With very little time left before the tournament, he’s now in a race to get fit. Spain will be hoping it’s not as serious as it first looked.
Serge Gnabry – Ruled out
Gnabry is already confirmed to miss the FIFA World Cup. The Bayern Munich winger picked up an adductor muscle tear, and the recovery timeline means he won’t be back in time. For Germany, losing a player with his experience and attacking quality is a big setback.
Rodrygo – Ruled out
Rodrygo’s injury is one of the toughest blows on this list. The Real Madrid forward suffered a torn ACL along with damage to his lateral meniscus in his right knee during a match against Getafe in March. Injuries like that take months to recover from, which rules him out of both the remainder of the season and the World Cup. For Brazil, it’s a huge loss heading into a major tournament.
🚨 UPDATE: Undergoing surgery too soon could worsen Rodrygo’s injury.
He will be out for 10-12 months. If he is back towards the earlier end of the timeframe, it will be a VICTORY. @diarioas pic.twitter.com/mam2OfUDAi
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) March 5, 2026
Hugo Ekitike – Ruled out
Ekitike has also seen his World Cup hopes take a hit. The striker suffered a ruptured Achilles and has already undergone surgery. It’s the kind of injury that requires a long recovery period, making it almost impossible for him to return in time. With the level of competition in France’s attack, this effectively ends his chances.
As things stand, some players are still fighting against time, while others already know they won’t make it to the FIFA World Cup. It’s a reminder of how unforgiving football can be. One injury at the wrong moment, and everything changes.
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