USMNT Injury Concerns Grow as Cardoso Faces Surgery Before Home World Cup

The United States will play the 2026 World Cup on home soil, but their preparation has been hit by injury concerns. Reuters reported that Atlético Madrid midfielder Johnny Cardoso is expected to undergo surgery on a severe right ankle sprain, leaving him doubtful for the tournament. The injury adds pressure on coach Mauricio Pochettino, who is also monitoring the fitness of captain Christian Pulisic, winger Tim Weah and midfielder Tanner Tessmann. The USMNT will play warm-up matches against Senegal and Germany before opening Group D against Paraguay in Inglewood, California.

Players to watch: Johnny Cardoso, Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah, Tanner Tessmann, Mauricio Pochettino.

Group opponents: Paraguay, Australia, European Playoff C winner.