USMNT's Johnny Cardoso Faces Uncertain World Cup Future After Ankle Injury
USMNT’s Johnny Cardoso sprains ankle five weeks out from World Cup
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
United States midfielder Johnny Cardoso has sustained a high-grade ankle sprain, jeopardizing his participation in the 2026 World Cup just five weeks before the tournament. The injury occurred during practice, and while he undergoes rehab, US head coach Mauricio Pochettino will need to consider alternative midfield options.
- 01Johnny Cardoso suffered a high-grade ankle sprain during practice.
- 02His recovery timeline poses serious doubts about his availability for the World Cup.
- 03The USMNT's first match is against Paraguay on June 13 in Inglewood, California.
- 04Cristian Roldan and Tanner Tessmann could be potential replacements in the midfield.
- 05Cardoso has made 23 appearances for the USMNT since his debut in 2020.
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Johnny Cardoso (midfielder for the United States men's national team) has suffered a high-grade sprain in his right ankle, as confirmed by his club, Atlético Madrid. With only five weeks remaining until the 2026 World Cup, the injury raises significant concerns about his participation in the tournament. High-grade ankle sprains typically require at least a month for recovery, which complicates his chances of being fit in time. The USMNT is set to open its World Cup campaign on June 13 against Paraguay in Inglewood, California, followed by matches against Australia and Turkey in Group D. Cardoso, who has 23 appearances for the national team since his debut in 2020, was injured during practice and will begin rehabilitation, although the club has not provided a specific timeline for his return. Should Cardoso be unable to play, US head coach Mauricio Pochettino may turn to Cristian Roldan of the Seattle Sounders or Tanner Tessmann, both of whom have shown versatility and experience in previous matches.
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Cardoso's potential absence could affect the USMNT's midfield strategy and overall performance in the World Cup.
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