Japan midfielder Takumi Minamino has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a French Cup match for Monaco. Recovery typically takes six to nine months, casting serious doubt on his participation in the 2026 World Cup. Monaco confirmed the diagnosis in an official statement.
The 30-year-old Minamino suffered the injury during Monaco's 2-1 victory over Auxerre in the French Cup on Sunday. Monaco posted on social media on Monday: "Our midfielder Takumi Minamino suffered an injury to his left knee. Medical examinations revealed a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament."
ACL ruptures typically sideline players for six to nine months, making it unlikely for Minamino to recover in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Japan is drawn in Group F against the Netherlands, Tunisia, and the winner of a European playoff—potentially Poland or Ukraine—with their opener set for June 14 against the Dutch at the Dallas Cowboys' stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Minamino has earned 73 caps for Japan, scoring 26 goals, including three appearances at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He netted four goals during Japan's qualification campaign, helping secure an early spot in the tournament co-hosted by North American neighbors. The former Liverpool and Salzburg player now faces a major setback for both the Samurai Blue and his club.
Monaco sits ninth in Ligue 1 and 19th in the 36-team Champions League standings after six rounds, with upcoming fixtures against Real Madrid and Juventus next month. Minamino's absence will be felt in these high-stakes matches, while Japan must adjust its plans for the global showpiece.
