The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching, but several football stars have already been ruled out of the tournament. Nations are preparing for the biggest-ever World Cup, with 48 teams set to compete for the most coveted football trophy. As the tournament is set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, key players are being forced to watch from the sidelines due to devastating injuries.
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From ACL tears to Achilles ruptures, the list of absentees continues to grow, which is a huge blow to fans who are looking forward to watch their favorite players feature in the tournament. This article explores the football stars ruled out of the 2026 World Cup, and the impact their absence can have on the tournament.
Major Football Stars Ruled Out of 2026 World Cup
Rodrygo (Brazil)
Real Madrid star, Rodrygo is one of the biggest names that will miss the 2026 World Cup. The Brazil star suffered a serious ACL and meniscus injury, which is expected to keep him out for several months. Rodrygo, who recently returned from a previous spell on the sidelines, fell clutching his right knee during Madrid’s win over Getafe.
Now sidelined until early March next year, Rodrygo will miss out on the chance for redemption after his penalty was saved during the Selecao’s shootout loss to Croatia in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals. His absence is a major blow for Brazil, as he was expected to play a key attacking role alongside Vinicius Jr, Neymar Jr, Raphinha and other team stars.
Éder Militão (Brazil)
Rodrygo’s Brazil teammate Éder Militão, will also be missing from the squad due to hamstring surgery. Militão has endured injury issues in recent years, especially when he tore ACLs in both his knees in the space of 15 months. He is now set to be missing in action until October.
His absence will be keenly felt by Brazil, as his defensive strength and experience made him a vital part of Selecao’s backline. Losing both him and Rodrygo significantly weakens Brazil’s chances heading into the tournament.
Xavi Simons (Netherlands)
Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons will also miss the World Cup after suffering a ruptured ACL during Tottenham’s first Premier League win in 2026. Simons has struggled for consistency during his debut season in the English topflight. But he has established himself as one of Ronald Koeman’s most dependable in the Netherland’s pursuit for World Cup glory.
However, his injury has ruled him out for months, ending his dream of representing his country football’s biggest stage this year.
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Mohammed Kudus (Ghana)
Ghana’s talisman Mohammed Kudus will not be available at this year’s World Cup due to a long-term injury. Kudus suffered a hamstring injury on April 9 and has been on the sidelines since then. Although he rejected surgery, opting for a conservative option, his availability for the Black Stars remain uncertain.
Kudus is undoubtedly one of Africa’s standout performers in recent years. His absence leaves a creative void in Ghana’s midfield.
Mohammed Salisu (Ghana)
Like Kudus, Salisu has joined the list of Ghana players that might not be available for the Black Stars at the World Cup. Salisu suffered a severe ACL tear in his left knee in early January, with Black Stars team doctor Prince Pambo confirming that the defensive player’s recovery would take up to nine months.
This means Salisu will not be at the World Cup, despite undergoing a successful surgery and beginning rehabilitation. Salisu’s defensive presence will be difficult to replace, especially against top international opposition.
Hugo Ekitike (France)
France will be going to the World Cup as one of the favorites to win the tournament. But Les Bleus will go without Liverpool star, Ekitike. Ekitike made his only his international debut in September, and established himself in Didier Deschamps’ World Cup plans following his impressive performances at Anfield.
However, the forward suffered a ruptured Achilles in April that is set to rule him out of action for the remainder of 2026. He will now be forced to watch from afar as his team which include superstars like Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Desire Doue gun for their third World Cup title.
Takumi Minamino (Japan)
Japan will be without Takumi Minamino, who suffered an ACL injury in his left knee in December 2025. Minamino sustained the injury in Monaco’s Coupe de France match against Auxerre. He is not expected to be back in to action from six to nine months.
Japan will miss Minamino’s versatility and attacking intelligence, which is crucial as the Asian giants prepare for the World Cup.
Patrick Agyemang (USA)
United States forward Patrick Agyemang has been ruled out due to a serious Achilles injury. The 25-year-old was injured during Derby County’s Championship match against Stoke City in April and had to be stretchered out of the pitch. While no exact recovery timeline has been given, he is not expected to be part of the team that will play in the World Cup.
Agyemang was considered a key palyer for US manager Mauricio Pochettinno’s attacking plans for the team. His absence is considered a huge setback for the team.
Other Players Missing or Likely to Miss the 2026 World Cup
- Juan Foyth (Argentina) – Achilles injury.
- Luis Ángel Malagón (Mexico) – still recovering from Achilles injury.
- Samu Aghehowa (Spain) – ACL injury
- Valentín Carboni (Argentina) – ACL injury
- Joaquín Panichelli (Argentina) – recurring ACL injury
- Cameron Carter-Vickers (USA) – Achilles surgery
