Atletico’s US midfielder Cardoso to have surgery, doubtful for World Cup

Atletico’s US midfielder Cardoso to have surgery, doubtful for World Cup

Atletico Madrid's Johnny Cardoso will undergo surgery on his right ankle, dealing a significant blow to his hopes of playing at the World Cup.

Atletico Madrid’s Johnny Cardoso saw limited action during the March international window, playing only 45 minutes in a friendly against Belgium. (EPA Images pic)
MADRID:
Atletico Madrid’s US midfielder Johnny Cardoso will undergo surgery on his right ankle, the LaLiga club said on Monday, dealing a significant blow to his hopes of playing at next month’s World Cup.

“Cardoso sustained the injury during training last Thursday, resulting in a severe sprain that has affected the joint,” Atletico said in a statement.

It is the latest setback for Cardoso, whose debut season at Atletico has been hampered by injuries.

The 24-year-old also saw limited action during the March international window, playing only 45 minutes in a friendly against Belgium.

US coach Mauricio Pochettino is expected to name his 26-man World Cup squad later this month, with the co-hosts already facing injury concerns.

Captain Christian Pulisic recently missed matches for AC Milan with a muscular problem, while Olympique de Marseille winger Tim Weah and Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Tanner Tessmann have also been sidelined.

The US, who co-host the tournament alongside Mexico and Canada, will play Senegal on May 31 and Germany on June 6 in warm-up matches before opening their Group D campaign against Paraguay in Inglewood, California, on June 12.

They will also face Australia and Turkey at the finals.

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