USMNT M Johnny Cardoso (ankle) expected to miss World Cup

Field Level Media
12 May 2026, 00:35 GMT+10

(Photo credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images)

The United States Men's National Team will have one less option in the midfield with Johnny Cardoso set to undergo ankle surgery this week in Barcelona, Spain.

Cardoso, 24, was injured during practice with Atletico Madrid last week and was diagnosed with a right high-ankle sprain. His initial timetable for a return was one month but he is now expected to miss at least two months.

'Johnny Cardoso will undergo surgery to repair the injury to his right ankle,' Atletico Madrid said in a statement Monday. 'The American suffered a trauma during training last Thursday that resulted in a high-grade sprain with joint involvement. We send you lots of encouragement and strength, Johnny, and wish you a speedy and full recovery from your injury.'

There was initial optimism Cardoso would be able to return in time for the World Cup, with the USMNT set to begin its World Cup run June 12 against Paraguay at Inglewood, Calif. He now is expected to return in time for Atletico's preseason camp later this summer.

Cardoso is in his first season with Atletico following stints with Spain's Betis (2023-25) and Brazil's Internacional (2019-23).

Born in New Jersey, Cardoso has appeared in 23 matches for the USMNT since making his senior debut in 2020. He most recently played for the team in a friendly against Belgium on March 28.

Co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the U.S. also is set for matches against Australia on June 19 in Seattle and Turkey on June 25 in Inglewood.

--Field Level Media

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