Several key soccer players are dealing with injuries as the World Cup approaches, raising concerns among teams and fans alike. Lionel Messi is the latest addition to a growing list of injured stars, following a recent match for Inter Miami where he left the field holding his left hamstring.
Other notable players like Kylian Mbappé and Mohamed Salah have made recoveries just in time for the tournament. Spain’s Lamine Yamal missed the end of the season with Barcelona due to a muscle injury but is expected to be fit for the World Cup.
Injuries to players are showing the strain of an overloaded schedule. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, describes it as an accident waiting to happen.
Brazil will miss stars Rodrygo and Éder Militão, while Bayern Munich’s Serge Gnabry is sidelined with an adductor injury. France’s Hugo Ekitike is out due to an Achilles injury with a lengthy recovery. Coaching staff and players continue to highlight the challenges of managing increased game schedules coupled with expanded tournaments like the Club World Cup and the Champions League.
Other players uncertain for the World Cup include:
- Argentina: Cristian Romero, with a knee injury, recovery timeline unknown.
- Canada: Alphonso Davies suffered a hamstring injury.
- Croatia: Luka Modrić and Joško Gvardiol have both recovered from previous injuries.
- Morocco: Achraf Hakimi out with a thigh injury.
- United States: Johnny Cardoso with an ankle sprain and Chris Richards with torn ankle ligaments.
Teams are cautious as they aim to bring their best players to the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With intense schedules and recent injuries, maintaining player health is a top priority.
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