Johnny Cardoso Expected to Miss World Cup Due to Ankle Injury

US Soccer Team Loses Midfielder to Injury Ahead of World Cup

Atletico Madrid midfielder Johnny Cardoso is set to undergo surgery on his right ankle, according to a statement from the La Liga club. The injury occurred during training last Thursday and has been diagnosed as a severe sprain affecting the joint.

Cardoso’s injury is the latest setback for the 24-year-old, who has struggled with injuries throughout his debut season at Atletico Madrid. He also saw limited action in the March international window, playing only 45 minutes in a friendly against Belgium.

The US Soccer team, which will co-host the World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada, is already facing injury concerns. Captain Christian Pulisic recently missed matches for AC Milan due to a muscular problem, while Olympique de Marseille winger Tim Weah and Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Tanner Tessmann have also been sidelined.

The US team is scheduled to play warm-up matches against Senegal on May 31 and Germany on June 6 before opening their Group D campaign against Paraguay in California on June 12. They will also face Australia and Turkey at the World Cup.

US Soccer coach Mauricio Pochettino is expected to name his 26-man World Cup squad later this month. The team’s roster is currently taking shape, with several key players dealing with injuries or other health issues.

Source: Al Jazeera