The FIFA World Cup 2026 is all set to start on June 11, with the prestigious tournament being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. A total of 48 teams from around the world will compete in the expanded edition of the one of the biggest sporting event.
While fans will get to watch many of the biggest stars on the pitch, several high-profile players will miss the tournament because of injuries. Their absence has dealt key blows to their respective national team.
Let's take a look at some of the famous players who won't be taking part in the FIFA World Cup.
Rodrygo - Brazil
The Brazilian star was very excited to represent Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup under a coach like Carlo Ancelotti, who is known for his work with the forwards. Sadly, an injury shattered Rodrygo's hopes. He picked up the injury while playing for Real Madrid in La Liga in March. Because of a muscle injury in his right knee, Rodrygo has been out of the prestigious tournament.
Xavi Simons - Netherlands
Xavi Simons picked up an injury during a Premier League game in April. The 23-year-old midfielder, who plays for Tottenham Hotspur, endured an ACL injury in his right knee, making him unavailable for the FIFA World Cup. Simons has since undergone surgery as part of his recovery process.
Fermin Lopez - Spain
The 23-year-old attacking midfielder from Spain has been ruled out of the FIFA World Cup because of a fracture in his right foot. Lopez picked up the injury while playing for Barcelona in the game against Real Betis in May 2026. He had been going through a wonderful season amassing 30 goal contributions, with the help of 13 goals and 17 assists across all competitions for Barca, helping the club win both La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup.
Hugo Ekitike - France
The 23-year-old striker from France, won't be playing in the FIFA World Cup, because of an unfortunate heel injury. Ekitike picked up the injury while playing for Liverpool in a UEFA Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain. The setback has dashed Ekitike's hopes of featuring in the World Cup.
Serge Gnabry - Germany
Germany's highest active goal scorer, Serge Gnabry has been ruled out of the FIFA World Cup because of a thigh muscle injury suffered in April. The 30-year-old forward picked up the injury while playing for Bayern Munich. For Germany, Gnabry has managed to hit 26 goals in 59 games.
Lennart Karl - Germany
Bayern Munich's youngest goalscorer ever in the history of the UEFA Champions League, secured a call-up to the German national team after his amazing performances. However, the 18-year-old picked up an injury during Germany's international friendly against the United States, forcing him to stay out of the tournament.
Estevao - Brazil
Estevao was highly anticipated to be included in Brazil's squad for the FIFA World Cup after scoring five goals in just six outings for the national team. However, the 19-year-old has been ruled out of the tournament because of a hamstring injury. He picked up the injury while playing for Chelsea in a match against Manchester United.