Manchester United have confirmed that defender Matthijs de Ligt underwent successful surgery on a back issue. The 26-year-old Dutch player will miss the Netherlands' campaign at the 2026 World Cup.
De Ligt has made just 16 appearances for United this season. His last game came in a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on November 30. United announced the corrective procedure on Friday as the best option after months of treatment failed to resolve the problem.
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The 18-year-old FC Bayern München forward suffered a muscle bundle tear in final training and will miss the World Cup in America. National coach Julian Nagelsmann has called up RB Leipzig's Assan Ouédraogo as replacement.
Netherlands right-back Jurrien Timber will miss the 2026 World Cup because of a groin injury. The Oranje made the announcement ahead of a warm-up match against Uzbekistan.
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United States midfielder Johnny Cardoso will miss the 2026 World Cup after suffering an ankle injury that requires surgery. Atletico Madrid confirmed the news in a statement on Monday.
Swedish defender Isak Hien was injured in the group stage match against Japan and has left the tournament. He wrote on Instagram that the dream ends prematurely.
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Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed confidence that Lamine Yamal will arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in top condition despite recovering from a hamstring injury. The 18-year-old forward sustained the injury last month while playing for Barcelona. De la Fuente highlighted Yamal's dedication to rehabilitation as key to his preparation.
Spain forward Victor Munoz faces an extended absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering an additional muscle injury. The new Liverpool signing missed Spain's opening match and is now set to miss further group games. His return timeline remains uncertain according to medical officials.
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Moderate-grade injuries to Yeremy Pino's collarbone and Nico Williams' adductor complicate Spain's options in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage.