Johnny Cardoso Injury: USA Midfielder to Miss 2026 World Cup

Atletico Madrid midfielder Johnny Cardoso is set to undergo surgery on his right ankle after suffering a severe sprain in training, the Spanish club confirmed on Monday. The Johnny Cardoso injury has raised serious doubts over his availability for next month’s FIFA World Cup, with the United States camp already managing several fitness concerns.

Atletico Madrid said the midfielder picked up the injury during a training session last Thursday and that the damage has significantly affected the joint. The club also confirmed that surgery will be required to address the issue.

“Cardoso sustained the injury during training last Thursday, resulting in a severe sprain that has affected the joint,” Atletico said in a statement.

Injury Setback During Debut Season in Spain

Cardoso, 24, joined Atletico Madrid this season after spells with Real Betis in Spain and Brazil’s SC Internacional. His first campaign in Madrid has been disrupted by recurring fitness problems, limiting his consistency in the squad.

The midfielder has also struggled for continuity at international level. Since making his debut for the United States men's national soccer team in 2020, he has earned 23 caps but has missed significant periods due to injury setbacks.

He featured only briefly in the March international window, playing 45 minutes in a friendly against Belgium.

USMNT Squad Concerns Ahead of Tournament

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino is expected to announce his 26-man squad later this month, but injuries across the pool of players remain a concern.

Captain Christian Pulisic has recently been sidelined with a muscle issue at AC Milan, while Tim Weah and Tanner Tessmann have also spent time out injured.

The United States, co-hosting the tournament with Mexico and Canada, will play warm-up fixtures before opening their Group D campaign against Paraguay on June 12 in Inglewood, California. They will also face Australia and Turkey in the group stage.