World Cup 2026 Injury Crisis: Rodrygo Out, Portugal Fit
With just days to go before the largest World Cup in history kicks off in North America, some of football’s biggest stars have seen their dreams dashed by injury. While heavyweights like Brazil and Germany are reeling from major losses, Portugal has emerged as a rare exception, boasting a clean bill of health heading into the tournament.
Missing Stars: Rodrygo and Gnabry Out
The “Canarinha” has been hit hardest, losing Real Madrid forward Rodrygo to a knee ligament tear suffered in March. Brazil’s casualty list is extensive, featuring Éder Militão, Estêvão, and Vitor Roque. Germany faces a similar crisis, with offensive mainstay Serge Gnabry and veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen both ruled out.
The Netherlands will also be without the creative spark of Xavi Simons and defender Jurriën Timber, while England remains without the services of Jack Grealish and Ben White. Spain, the reigning European champion, will have to defend its continental prestige without Fermín López or Pablo Barrios.
Portugal Defies the Odds
In stark contrast, Portugal enters its ninth World Cup appearance as one of only 11 nations—out of 48—without a single significant clinical absence. Despite a grueling 2025/26 season that saw captain Cristiano Ronaldo face several physical scares, the legendary striker and his teammates have arrived in North America fully fit.
Portugal is part of an elite group of “injury-free” squads that includes Belgium, Croatia, Uruguay, Turkey, and Senegal. This medical clean slate could prove a decisive advantage in a tournament that features a record-breaking 104 matches across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Last-Minute Scrambles
Under FIFA regulations, teams can still replace players until 24 hours before their opening match in cases of serious injury. Argentina is currently dealing with such a dilemma after defender Leonardo Balerdi was forced to leave training camp, joining a list of sidelined World Cup winners that includes Juan Foyth.
Icons on the Mend
While many have been ruled out, fans can breathe a sigh of relief regarding the tournament’s biggest icons. Lionel Messi, Neymar, Kylian Mbappé, and Lamine Yamal are all expected to participate, having either recovered from recent knocks or entered the final stages of rehabilitation just in time for the opening whistle.
Major Absences by Nation:
- Brazil: Rodrygo, Éder Militão, Estêvão, Vitor Roque.
- Germany: Serge Gnabry, Marc-André ter Stegen, Emre Can.
- Netherlands: Xavi Simons, Matthijs de Ligt, Jurriën Timber.
- England: Jack Grealish, Ben White.
- Spain: Fermín López, Pablo Barrios, Samu.
- Argentina: Leonardo Balerdi, Juan Foyth.
- France: Hugo Ekitiké.
- Japan: Kaoru Mitoma, Takumi Minamino.
Image: Pexels – Franco Monsalvo
