The USMNT had Johnny Cardoso as pretty much a main guy on its roster as it prepares ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, Atletico Madrid just confirmed that the American will have ankle surgery, which could jeopardize his participation in the biggest tournament in world soccer..
Per Ben Jacobs of GiveMeSport, the United States soccer team is in touch to see how fast Cardoso could return to the pitch, but overall sentiment is he will miss the World Cup.
Cardoso is a very good midfielder who brings stability and quality to the USMNT’s middle section. Without the Atletico Madrid midfielder, the son of Brazilian parents will leave a hole on Mauricio Pochettino’s squad.
Who could replace Cardoso on USMNT?
MLS-based talents could come in handy to replace Johnny Cardoso. For instance, names like Sebastian Berhalter from the Vancouver Whitecaps or Cristian Roldan from the Seattle Sounders could see their names called.
Sebastian Berhalter #17 of the United States
Berhalter was a bright spot for the USMNT during the 2025 Gold Cup and he’s been called plenty of times by Pochettino. His role could be bigger without Cardoso on the squad, though. Also, Roldan has 45 caps for the USMNT and World Cup experience. It’s time for Pochettino to solve the puzzle.
Does the USMNT has other players out of the World Cup?
Striker Patrick Agyemang is fully discarded due to an Achilles tear. Goalkeeper Jonathan Klinsmann suffered a broken neck, so he is also out of the World Cup. Left back John Tolkin has an inner knee ligament injury that has sidelined him.
A few other key pieces are battling injuries, creating uncertainty around their names but still expected to be able to play in the World Cup. Those players are forward Christian Pulisic, versatile Tim Weah, and midfielder Tanner Tessmann.
