​The 2026 World Cup is lining up for a blockbuster final between Argentina and Spain, with both sides hopeful they can dodge any untimely injuries as they chase the ultimate prize. Some of the tournament’s high-profile injury sagas have resolved favorably, notably Lamine Yamal’s return to full fitness which has made him a regular feature for Spain, and Neymar’s late-minute cameo moments in what will be his final World Cup, even as Brazil were edged out by Norway. Yet even as those positive stories emerged, there are still several notable concerns looming over the final and, in the case of France and England, ahead of the third-place play-off.
Here is a full rundown of the key injuries at this year’s World Cup. Yeremy Pino (Spain) sustained a collarbone injury against Uruguay, raising fears that he might miss the remainder of the tournament. Spain later announced that X-rays showed no fracture, but instead an acromioclavicular sprain. Despite this, Pino has not yet played for Spain since the group stage, and it seems unlikely he will return for the final.
New Liverpool signing Victor Munoz has not appeared for Spain at all this World Cup after pulling a calf muscle in the lead-up to the tournament, followed by another muscular setback. He will be absent for the final.
Facundo Medina (Argentina) faced a significant defensive injury blow after hobbling off with a calf problem in Argentina’s last-32 win over Cape Verde. Medina, who started three of Argentina’s first four World Cup matches, has not played since that extra-time victory and is racing against time to be fit for the final. Nicolas Tagliafico is maintaining his role at left-back as Argentina navigate the knockout rounds.
Reece James (England) is another player under strain heading into crucial fixtures, after being taken off against Argentina in the semi-final. The defender has been managing a hamstring issue for much of the tournament; during the semi-final, he required treatment on the field, and it remains unclear whether he is fit enough to face France in the final. As James headed down the byline for treatment, manager Thomas Tuchel acted quickly to avoid any further risks, keeping him uncertain for Saturday’s showdown.
Declan Rice (England) has also battled injuries, with neural back pain complicating his World Cup campaign and prompting England to adjust their plans. The lingering issues have affected his availability and performance, contributing to the broader concerns about England’s squad depth and medical status heading into the decisive matches.