World Cup 2026 injury watch: Key names racing to be ready

With the World Cup fast approaching, several high-profile players are sidelined or in a race against time to prove their fitness.

Injuries have left international managers facing difficult decisions as the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico draws closer to its 11 June start.

Lamine Yamal caused Spain concern when he suffered a hamstring injury in scoring for Barcelona against Celta Vigo on Wednesday - although his club expect him to be fit for the World Cup.

Nonetheless, he has added his name to a growing list of key players with injury troubles as the tournament nears.

And there are some big names on that list.

Marc Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona and Germany)

Germany's first-choice goalkeeper is fighting to be recover from a long-term hamstring problem. The injury has severely limited his preparation, and his chances of being ready for the opening matches in June are fading. His absence would be a major setback for a squad built around experience at major tournaments.

Rodrygo (Real Madrid and Brazil)

Brazil face a significant blow with the Real Madrid forward ruled out after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in March. The five-time world champions will be without one of their most explosive attacking options, with his injury ending any hopes of a tournament comeback.

Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur and Argentina)

The Argentina defender is out for the remainder of the Premier League season with a knee injury. The 27-year-old was visibly upset as he limped off following a collision with goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky during Tottenham's Premier League defeat at Sunderland in April.

While there is optimism he will recover in time, concerns remain over his lack of recent match action. His aggression and leadership are central to Argentina's defensive set-up.

Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool and France)

France striker Ekitike ruptured his Achilles tendon in April and is not expected to return to action until 2027, ending his World Cup hopes entirely.

Ekitike joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt last July and has been one of their standout performers in a difficult season for the club, with 17 goals and six assists in all competitions.

Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur and Ghana)

Kudus is awaiting further assessment on a quad injury that could require surgery. Ghana risk losing their key creative figure if recovery takes longer than expected. His availability remains uncertain as crucial decisions loom. The Ghana international has been out for more than three months after limping out of Spurs' 1-1 draw with Sunderland on 4 January.

Eder Militao (Real Madrid and Brazil)

Militao has been ruled out for the rest of Real Madrid's season after suffering a hamstring tear. The 28-year-old centre-back is targeting a return for the World Cup, but Brazil's medical staff are cautious given his recent history of muscle injuries.

Reece James (Chelsea and England)

England defender James is once again dealing with hamstring issues while sidelined at Chelsea. Having missed the past two major tournaments, his hopes depend on avoiding further setbacks. The 26-year-old sustained the injury in a 1-0 Premier League defeat by Newcastle in March. Any delay in recovery would put his place in serious doubt.

Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich and Canada)

Canada's talisman is once again struggling with the recurring muscle issues that have plagued his recent seasons at Bayern Munich. His explosive pace is central to Canada's threat, but his body seems to be pushing back at the worst possible moment. If he is not fully fit, Canada's chances take a massive hit.

Mikel Merino (Arsenal and Spain)

The Arsenal midfielder has been a steady presence for Spain, but a fractured foot has kept him on the sidelines since February. Spain's medical staff are wary of a premature return.

Wataru Endo (Liverpool and Japan)

Japan captain Endo is coping with a double setback involving his knee and ankle since sustaining the injury that left him in need of surgery during February's match against Sunderland. He is set to miss the rest of Liverpool's season and his absence for Japan would leave a big gap in terms of midfield leadership and experience.

Arda Guler (Real Madrid and Turkey)

A hamstring injury has brought Guler's domestic season to an end. Although he might recover in time for the World Cup, concerns remain over his sharpness and readiness with limited time to regain match fitness.

Estevao Willian (Chelsea and Brazil)

The Chelsea teenage forward is recovering from a hamstring tear and will not feature again for the Blues this season. Brazil remain hopeful, but his lack of recent football makes selection uncertain. The final decision is likely to hinge on his progress in the coming weeks.