USMNT, Champions League Star Midfielder Johnny Cardoso Ruled Out of World Cup
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- U.S. men's national team midfielder Johnny Cardoso will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Atlético Madrid announced he will undergo surgery for a high-grade right ankle sprain.
- Cardoso was diagnosed with the injury just 31 days before the USMNT's World Cup opener against Paraguay and 15 days before the roster announcement by manager Mauricio Pochettino.
- Since joining Atlético Madrid in July, Cardoso struggled to secure a consistent role and recently played in the UEFA Champions League semifinal loss to Arsenal.
- Cardoso's absence opens opportunities for midfielders like Vancouver Whitecaps’ Sebastian Berhalter and Seattle Sounders’ Cristian Roldan, both of whom bring international experience and strong recent form.
- The USMNT will play two pre-World Cup friendlies against Senegal and Germany, with roster adjustments possible up to 24 hours before their opening match.