Squad Uncertainties Loom Over 2026 World Cup as Injuries and Suspensions Mount
From surgical procedures to extended bans, the path to the United States, Canada and Mexico is fraught with institutional hurdles for national team selectors.
The approach to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico is being defined by a series of institutional absences that will force national coaches to reconsider their selection strategies. As the club season nears its conclusion, developments regarding player fitness and disciplinary action are already shaping the rosters set to travel to North America this summer.
Concerns regarding the United States men's national team have intensified following reports that star forward Christian Pulisic is currently unfit. The AC Milan striker missed his side's recent match against Atalanta due to a minor issue and has not scored for the national team since 2024. With Pulisic expected to lead the squad on home soil, his current struggles and lack of recent goals present a worrying scenario for the tournament.
Further compounding the uncertainty for the USMNT is the confirmation that central midfielder Johnny Cardoso will undergo surgery. This medical intervention means the Atletico Madrid player will miss the tournament entirely, removing a key component of the midfield structure from the available pool of talent.
Across the Atlantic, Spanish striker Nico Williams faces a similar dilemma after suffering a muscular injury during a match against Valencia. The Athletic Club star required immediate assessment upon leaving the pitch, with his brother describing the pain as unprecedented. Given Williams' pivotal role in the Spanish roster and his experience leading the nation to the 2024 UEFA Euro final, his availability remains a critical variable for the coaching staff.
Disciplinary action has also impacted the opening fixtures for Argentina. FIFA has decided to extend the worldwide ban on midfielder Gianluca Prestianni, a move requested by UEFA following an incident involving verbal abuse. This extension rules the Benfica player out of Argentina's two opening matches, effectively removing him from contention for the start of the tournament despite his inclusion in the preliminary 40-man roster.
Injuries have similarly disrupted the Canadian squad, with star defender Alphonso Davies sidelined for several weeks. The Bayern Munich player suffered a hamstring injury during a challenging season in the Bundesliga, where he started only six times. The Canadian FA has issued a statement confirming they are in close contact with Davies and his medical team, focusing resources on his recovery to ensure a pathway back to full fitness before the World Cup.
Meanwhile, Colombian forward James Rodriguez is set to leave Minnesota United next week to focus exclusively on the national team. This departure from MLS dispels recent speculation regarding his retirement, as the player has explicitly stated his intention to continue his career. Rodriguez will now prioritise the World Cup before deciding on his future club destination.
