The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to test the health of several high-profile stars as injuries and workload management remain major storylines across the tournament. Brazil continues to monitor Neymar's recovery from a Grade 2 calf strain, while United States captain Christian Pulisic is dealing with a calf issue that has limited his training. Brazil winger Raphinha is also managing a recent injury concern. Here's the latest injury and availability outlook for some of the biggest names competing at the World Cup.
Christian Pulisic - Calf
Pulisic made his return to action for the USMNT on Thursday, coming off the bench in the 58th minute after missing time with a left calf injury. More importantly, he looked like himself, creating chances and generating a couple of opportunities of his own during his cameo. After the match, Pulisic said, "I felt healthy, I felt good, so it was really nice to be back with the team and get some minutes." The USMNT takes on Bosnia-Herzegovina on July 1st in the round of 32.
Raphinha - Hamstring
Raphinha suffered a right hamstring injury during Brazil's 3-0 World Cup victory over Haiti and was forced off before halftime after receiving treatment on the field. Subsequent testing confirmed the injury, but Brazil has not ruled him out for the remainder of the tournament.
Raphinha missed Brazil's match against Scotland. His availability for Brazil's upcoming match against Japan remains to be determined.
Raphinha's current World Cup hamstring injury is not his first issue with the muscle this year. In March, the Brazilian winger suffered a right hamstring injury involving a biceps femoris tear during an international friendly against France. The injury was confirmed by the Brazilian Football Federation and carried an estimated five-week recovery timeline, forcing him to miss the final stretch of Barcelona's season.
On Tuesday, Raphinha made it clear that his focus remains on returning to the field for Brazil despite his recent right hamstring injury. The winger, who was forced off against Haiti and is currently undergoing treatment, posted a message on Instagram emphasizing his commitment to recovery: "I will do everything in my power to recover and return as quickly as possible." He missed Brazil's win over Scotland on Wednesday.
Neymar - Calf
Neymar made his return to the field for Brazil on Wednesday, coming on as a substitute in the 75th minute in BRazils win over Scotland. The 34-year-old forward has been sidelined since arriving at camp due to a Grade 2 right calf strain. Neymar also expressed his excitement on social media, writing, "Thank you, God. I'm so happy!!!" after rejoining the squad for a complete training session.
Ismaël Koné - Tibia & Fibula Fracture
Koné suffered a devastating left leg injury during Canada's World Cup match against Qatar, sustaining severe fractures of both the tibia and fibula after a challenge from Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo. The 24-year-old was stretchered off the field and subsequently underwent successful surgery to repair the fractures. While medical staff are optimistic that Koné will make a full recovery, the severity of the injury will sideline him for the remainder of the World Cup and likely require an extended rehabilitation process. The loss is a significant blow for Canada, as Koné had been a key part of the midfield entering the tournament.
Nico Schlotterbeck - Ankle
Schlotterbeck has officially been ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup after Germany confirmed he suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury in his left ankle during the win over Ivory Coast. Initial concerns proved accurate, as further evaluation revealed significant ligament damage that is expected to sideline him for several months. The timing is particularly unfortunate for Germany, which had already secured first place in Group E and a spot in the Round of 32. Because the tournament is already underway, Germany cannot add a replacement to the squad, leaving a significant hole in its back line. Schlotterbeck's absence will be a major loss as the knockout stage approaches, with Antonio Rüdiger and the rest of the defense expected to take on larger roles moving forward.
