The US Men's National Team has been dealt a significant blow just five weeks out from the 2026 World Cup. Midfielder Johnny Cardoso has suffered a "high grade" sprain in his right ankle, as confirmed by his club, Atlético Madrid, on Thursday. This injury casts serious doubt on his participation in the tournament, with less than three weeks remaining until head coach Mauricio Pochettino must finalize his 26-man squad.
High-grade ankle sprains typically require at least a month of recovery time, often more. The US opens their World Cup campaign on June 13 against Paraguay in Inglewood, California, followed by matches against Australia and Turkey in Group D. Cardoso's injury occurred during training, and while Atlético confirmed he will begin rehab, no specific timeline for his return has been provided. The timing is particularly challenging, as La Liga has just four rounds left and Atlético is fighting for a top-four finish after their Champions League semi-final elimination by Arsenal.
Cardoso, 24, has earned 23 caps for the USMNT since his debut in 2020, with his most recent appearance coming in March's 5-2 loss to Belgium, where he played the first 45 minutes. Known primarily as a defensive midfielder, he has shown flashes of quality at the international level but has struggled to consistently replicate the strong form he displays for his club. Many saw this summer's tournament as a potential breakout opportunity for him to solidify his role in the US midfield.
If Cardoso is unable to recover in time, Pochettino will have several intriguing options to consider. Seattle Sounders veteran Cristian Roldan could become a near-lock for his second World Cup roster, thanks to his versatility, experience, and the respect he commands among teammates. Another candidate is Tanner Tessmann, who has appeared 12 times under Pochettino and ranks 15th in minutes among US players during his tenure. Tessmann's ability to play multiple positions—including center back in a three-man backline for both club and country—adds valuable flexibility to the squad.
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, all eyes will be on Cardoso's recovery timeline and how Pochettino adjusts his midfield plans. For fans following the team's journey, this is a reminder of the fine margins that can define a tournament campaign.