Several high-profile football stars will miss the 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup because of injuries.
The absence of these players creates significant gaps in their respective national team rosters just weeks before the tournament begins. These athletes are central to their team strategies, and their unavailability forces coaches to find immediate replacements.
Among those ruled out are Real Madrid players Rodrigo and Éder Militao [1]. Both players have been confirmed as unavailable for selection by their national teams due to their current medical status [2]. The injuries have effectively ended their hopes of participating in the tournament scheduled for June and July 2026 [1].
Robert Lewandowski is also among the stars who will not participate [1]. His absence leaves a void in the attacking line of his national squad, as he has been a primary goal-scoring threat in international competition [2].
Reports also indicate that Mohamed Salah will not be present, a friend of the player said [2]. While Salah is one of the most influential players in the world, his injury status has prevented his selection for the squad [2].
The tournament will be co-hosted by three [2] countries: the U.S., Canada, and Mexico [1]. The scale of the event increases the pressure on teams to have fully healthy squads, as the travel and match intensity across North America are expected to be demanding [2].
National team officials said that these players will not be selected for the tournament [2]. This confirmation comes as teams finalize their rosters for the event [1].
“Several high-profile football stars will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup because of injuries.”
The loss of veteran leaders and elite goal-scorers like Lewandowski and Salah significantly alters the competitive landscape of the 2026 World Cup. National teams must now rely on younger, less experienced talent to fill critical roles in defense and attack, potentially shifting the odds for the tournament favorites.
