Key players face injury race against time for upcoming World Cup
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Several high-profile players are currently sidelined or in a race against time to prove their fitness for the upcoming World Cup. Lamine Yamal of Barcelona and Spain suffered a hamstring injury but his club expects him to be fit. Germany's first-choice goalkeeper Marc Andre ter Stegen is battling a long-term hamstring problem, potentially impacting his readiness for the opening matches. Brazil faces a significant blow with Real Madrid forward Rodrygo ruled out due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Argentina defender Cristian Romero is out for the remainder of the Premier League season with a knee injury. Alphonso Davies, Canada’s talisman, is struggling with recurring muscle issues. Spain's Mikel Merino has been out since February with a fractured foot. Japan captain Wataru Endo is coping with knee and ankle injuries and is set to miss the rest of Liverpool’s season. Arda Guler of Real Madrid and Turkey has a hamstring injury, ending his domestic season. Chelsea's Estevao Willian is recovering from a hamstring tear, making his World Cup selection uncertain. France striker Hugo Ekitike ruptured his Achilles tendon in April and is not expected to return until 2027, ending his World Cup hopes. Mohammed Kudus of Tottenham Hotspur and Ghana is awaiting assessment on a quad injury that could require surgery. Eder Militao of Real Madrid and Brazil has been ruled out for the rest of his club season with a hamstring tear, targeting a World Cup return. England defender Reece James
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