Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Suffers ACL Injury, Ruled Out of 2026 World Cup
Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and a lateral meniscus rupture in his right knee, effectively ending his season and jeopardizing his participation in this summer’s World Cup with Brazil. The injury occurred during Monday’s 1-0 loss to Getafe at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Injury Details and Recovery Timeline
The club confirmed the diagnosis on Tuesday, stating that Rodrygo sustained the injuries to his right knee. Sources indicate the 25-year-old winger will be sidelined for approximately eight months, though his recovery will be continuously evaluated ESPN. This timeline casts significant doubt on his availability for the World Cup, which is scheduled to begin this summer.
Impact on Real Madrid
Rodrygo had been feeling soreness in his knee prior to the match against Getafe, but the injury occurred during play. He was substituted into the game in the 55th minute, managing three shots before being forced off the field ESPN. This is the fifth ACL injury to a Real Madrid player since the summer of 2023. The loss of Rodrygo is a significant blow to Real Madrid’s ambitions, as they trail Barcelona by four points in La Liga.
Brazil’s Response
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has expressed its solidarity with Rodrygo, wishing him a speedy recovery. In a statement, the CBF acknowledged the severity of the injury and its potential impact on Rodrygo’s participation in the World Cup CBS Sports. The CBF stated they hope he returns to the pitch as soon as possible.
Rodrygo’s Career
Rodrygo joined Real Madrid in 2019 from Santos FC for a reported transfer fee of around $40 million Yahoo Sports. Prior to his move to Spain, he scored nine goals and provided five assists in 41 matches for Santos in Brazil’s top professional league.
2026 World Cup Participants (Confirmed as of March 3, 2026)
- Brazil – 23rd appearance
- United States of America – 12th appearance
- Mexico – 18th appearance
- England – 17th appearance
- Portugal – ninth appearance
- France – 17th appearance
- Spain – 17th appearance
- Iran – seventh appearance
- Switzerland – 13th appearance
- Croatia – seventh appearance
- Australia – seventh appearance
- Morocco – seventh appearance
- Austria – eighth appearance
- Ecuador – fifth appearance
- Senegal – fourth appearance
- South Korea – 12th appearance
- Japan – eighth appearance
- Colombia – seventh appearance
- Netherlands – 12th appearance
- Germany – 21st appearance
- Belgium – 15th appearance
- Canada – third appearance
- Saudi Arabia – seventh appearance
- Uzbekistan – first appearance
- Jordan – first appearance
- Tunisia – seventh appearance
- South Africa – fourth appearance
- Ivory Coast – fourth appearance
- Scotland – ninth appearance
- Algeria – fifth appearance
- New Zealand – third appearance
- Paraguay – ninth appearance
- Egypt – fourth appearance
- Cape Verde – first appearance
(List sourced from Yahoo Sports)