“Stars at risk: Who will be ready for the World Cup?”

The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun, and with less than three months until the first whistle, some of the biggest names in world football are facing a race against time to recover from injuries. It’s a familiar dilemma that recurs with each edition of the tournament: rising stars who, due to injuries, are forced to watch their teammates from the sidelines. English fans know this story of disappointment all too well.

In 2002, Steven Gerrard, the great hope of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s midfield, was sidelined from the World Cup in Japan and South Korea due to a groin injury, despite having shone in the qualifying stage with a memorable goal in the famous 5-1 victory over Germany. Four years later, Wayne Rooney, the star of the national team, struggled to recover from a metatarsal fracture, which prevented him from being in top form, resulting in England’s elimination in the quarter-finals, again at the hands of Portugal. Now, in 2026, the spotlight is on Jude Bellingham, one of football’s most promising young talents, who is dealing with a season full of injuries at Real Madrid. Despite the uncertainties, bookmakers remain optimistic about England’s chances, listing them as second favorites at 11/2 to win the trophy, just behind Spain at 9/2.

Injury concerns are not limited to Bellingham. Let’s take a look at three notable players facing an uncertain future on the eve of the World Cup.

Mikel Merino, the talented midfielder from Arsenal, has been a key figure for the Spanish national team in recent times. After scoring a decisive goal against Germany in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 and contributing with a hat-trick in the World Cup qualifiers, Merino saw his season interrupted by a stress fracture in his foot, sustained during a defeat against Manchester United. With surgery performed in February and a prognosis that keeps him off the pitch for at least four months, Merino’s future with the Spanish national team is uncertain. However, even in his absence, Spain boasts a squad filled with talent, featuring young players like Lamine Yamal and experienced midfielders such as Pedri and Rodri, who can lead the team in its pursuit of victory in the tournament.

Josko Gvardiol, a defender for Manchester City, is another player facing difficulties. After suffering a tibial fracture in his right leg during a match against Chelsea, his return is not expected until the end of June, which is concerning given that the World Cup begins on June 10. Croatia, which has already surprised the football world by reaching the final in 2018 and securing third place in 2022, may feel the absence of Gvardiol’s experience in their defense, especially with the transition from the golden generation that led the national team to great successes.

Lastly, Alexander Isak, the Swedish forward, faces an even more complicated dilemma. Sweden is still fighting to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup, needing to get through the playoffs against Ukraine and possibly Poland or Albania. Isak, who made a record transfer to Liverpool, has not played since breaking his leg in December. His return is not expected until the end of April, raising serious doubts about his physical condition and availability for the tournament, should Sweden manage to get past the playoffs.

As the countdown progresses, national teams and fans are eager to find out who will overcome the odds and be present on the grandest stage of world football. The pressure is mounting, and stories of triumph and disappointment are about to be written.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.