By Martin Graham
With the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico set to begin on June 11, several leading international players are battling injuries, and coaches face tough selection calls. The list of absent players continues to grow, raising doubts about the strength of the team just weeks before the start of the competition.
Spain had a scare when Lamine Yamal suffered a hamstring problem while scoring for Barcelona against Celta de Vigo. While his club hope he recovers in time, his situation highlights the fragile fitness of key players at this stage of the season.
Germany also faces uncertainty, including its first goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is trying to come back from a long-term hamstring problem. The limited preparation has reduced his chances of being fit for the opening games, which would be a major blow for a team that relies heavily on experienced performers at major tournaments.
Important absences already confirmed
Some nations have already suffered definitive setbacks, with injuries ruling players out entirely. Brazil will be without Rodrigo after the striker suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in March, removing one of their most dangerous attacking threats from the fight.
France has also lost Hugo Ekitikea ruptured Achilles tendon will keep him out until 2027. The striker had been a standout player for Liverpool this season, contributing 17 goals and six assists, making his absence particularly damaging.
These confirmed casualties underline the physical cost of the season and make it necessary for national teams to adjust plans well in advance of the tournament.
Key players racing against time
A number of high-profile names remain in a race to prove their fitness before final squad decisions are made. Argentinian defense Cristian Romero is out for the rest of the Premier League campaign with a knee injury, although there is hope he will return in time. However, concerns persist over his lack of sharpness in the game despite his importance to the team’s defensive structure.
Defender of Brazil Eder Militao he is also sidelined with a hamstring tear that has ended his club season, but is targeting a comeback for the World Cup. The medical staff remains cautious due to his recent history of muscle problems.
England’s Reece James faces another setback with ongoing hamstring problems, putting his participation in doubt once again after missing out on previous major tournaments. Meanwhile, Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino he is still recovering from a broken foot, with Spain wary of bringing him back too soon.
Uncertainty about fitness and form
Other players are dealing with injuries that make their availability clear. Mohammed Jerusalem he has been out for more than three months with a quad problem that may require surgery, putting Ghana’s creative options at risk. Japan captain Wataru Endo he is recovering from knee and ankle problems after surgery, and his absence would leave a leadership void in the midfield.
from canada Alfonso Davies is again battling recurring muscle issues, raising concerns about whether he can perform at his best. His pace is central to his team’s approach, which makes his condition particularly significant.
Young talents also face uncertainty. Arda Guler’s The hamstring injury has ended his domestic campaign and while he could return in time, questions remain about his fitness after limited playing time. In the same way, 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.
