Real Madrid is grappling with an unprecedented health crisis just before the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Brazilian winger Rodrygo, after tearing his cruciate ligaments and damaging his meniscus, has been officially ruled out for the rest of the season and for participation in the tournament. Simultaneously, conflicting reports are mounting regarding the health status of Kylian Mbappé, whose knee injury may prove more serious than initially assumed, casting doubt on his World Cup appearance.

Rodrygo Loses Season and World Cup

The Brazilian tore his cruciate ligaments and meniscus, definitively ruling him out of play for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Medical Alarm Around Mbappé

The French star's knee condition is critical; there is a real risk that Kylian Mbappé will not travel to the 2026 tournament.

Criticism of Real Madrid's Medical Services

Seven torn ligaments in three years calls into question the competence of the medical staff of the Madrid giant.

Club and international football held its breath following a series of dramatic reports from the Real Madrid camp. Brazilian Rodrygo, one of the key players for the Canarinhos national team, suffered a tragic knee injury that eliminates him from participation in the approaching 2026 FIFA World Cup. Tests revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus damage. In an emotional post, the player admitted it was one of the worst days of his life, with public support expressed by, among others, Neymar, who called him his sporting heir. Shocking reports suggest Rodrygo may have been playing with a partially torn ligament since 2023, which casts the club's medical services in a very unfavorable light. The squad situation for the "Royals" is becoming disastrous, as alarming news is also emerging regarding Kylian Mbappé. Although statements are often contradictory, the latest reports indicate the French striker is playing "on the edge of endurance," and his knee requires immediate intervention. Since 2023, Real Madrid has already recorded seven cases of cruciate ligament tears among its players, sparking a wave of criticism towards the fitness and medical staff. Spanish media write about an "exhausted model" and a lack of calm within the club's structures. In recent years, Real Madrid has been plagued by a wave of mechanical injuries, which experts link to the increasingly tight FIFA and UEFA competition calendar, leaving players insufficient time for full biological recovery.Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham has left the Spanish capital and traveled to England, fueling rumors of further disintegration within the team led by Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian coach, even before the news of Rodrygo's injury, had predicted that Brazil would play the tournament at the highest level, but the loss of such a crucial element drastically changes the perspective for the manager of the five-time world champions. Fans and experts anxiously await official confirmation of Mbappé's status, whose absence from the World Cup would be the biggest blow for the French national team and the entire tournament. „C'est l'un des pires jours de ma vie. La vie a été un peu crue avec moi ces derniers temps.” (It's one of the worst days of my life. Life has been a bit harsh with me lately.) — Rodrygo

Mentioned People

  • Rodrygo Silva de Goes — Real Madrid footballer who suffered a severe knee injury ruling him out of the World Cup.
  • Kylian Mbappé — Real Madrid and France national team star whose participation in the 2026 World Cup is in doubt.
  • Carlo Ancelotti — Real Madrid coach commenting on the squad situation and Brazil's chances.