U.S. MF Johnny Cardoso sprains ankle 5 weeks before World Cup

Field Level Media|published: Thu 7th May, 13:52 2026

Soccer: International Friendly Soccer-New Zealand at USA

Sep 10, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; USA midfielder Johnny Cardoso (15) dribbles against New Zealand in the second half at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

U.S. midfielder Johnny Cardoso is dealing with a "high-grade" sprain in his right ankle just five weeks before the World Cup, Atletico Madrid announced on Thursday.

"He will undergo physiotherapy and rehabilitation sessions in the gym, and the progress of his recovery will determine his return to competition," the La Liga club posted on X.

Cardoso, 24, sustained the injury during practice. He is in his first season with Atletico Madrid following stints with Spain's Betis (2023-25) and Brazil's Internacional (2019-23).

Cardoso has appeared in 23 matches for the U.S. Men's National Team since making his senior debut in 2020, most recently in a friendly against Belgium on March 28.

Co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the U.S. opens play in Group D against Paraguay on June 13 in Inglewood, Calif. That is followed by matches against Australia on June 19 in Seattle and Turkey on June 25 in Inglewood.

--Field Level Media

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