Johnny Cardoso Surgery Ends 2026 World Cup Bid

Johnny Cardoso will undergo surgery after Atlético Madrid diagnosed him with a high-grade right ankle sprain, ending his availability for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 24-year-old midfielder was hurt 31 days before the United States opens against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

Atlético Madrid and Cardoso

Atlético Madrid said Monday that surgery is the correct course after scans at the club’s training facility and a stretch of physiotherapy and rehabilitation work. Cardoso was unable to complete training last Thursday, and the ankle injury became the issue that stopped his World Cup push.

The timing leaves Mauricio Pochettino with one less option before he unveils his roster at a May 26 live event in New York City. Cardoso had been competing for a spot, and his absence opens room in a central midfield battle that was still unsettled.

USMNT Roster Opening

Cardoso has 23 caps for the United States and no goals or assists in those appearances. He played 45 minutes in the 5-2 loss to Belgium in March, then returned to Spain for further treatment after leg discomfort and missed the friendly against Portugal.

His most recent club appearance came in Atlético Madrid’s UEFA Champions League semifinal loss to Arsenal, part of a season in which he made 30 appearances after joining from Real Betis in July ahead of the 2025-26 season. That run had kept him in the mix for a roster spot, but the surgery now shuts that door before the tournament opens.

SoFi Stadium Timing

The injury hit with 31 days left before the World Cup opener in Los Angeles, and the roster picture will now tilt toward other midfield candidates. Sebastian Berhalter and Cristian Roldan are among the players likely to benefit from the opening Cardoso leaves behind.