Real Madrid forward Rodrygo set to miss World Cup after suffering ACL injury

Rodrygo, on the ground, during the match against Getafe
Rodrygo, on the ground, during the match against GetafePSNEWZ / Sipa Press / Profimedia

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo is set to miss the World Cup with Brazil and potentially the rest of 2026, after the club confirmed that he has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament and the lateral meniscus of his right leg.

Rodrygo returned to action on Monday in the 1-0 loss to Getafe, but after a tussle with an opponent, he fell near the touchline and immediately grabbed his knee. He managed to play for another half hour, but it was clear he wasn’t comfortable.

It is a seismic blow for Real Madrid, who are also missing Kylian Mbappe with a knee sprain and Franco Mastantuono, who was sent off against Getafe.

The only fit forwards left are Vinicius Junior and Gonzalo Garcia, as well as Brahim Diaz, who doesn’t seem to be in the coach’s plans.

Real are four points behind Barcelona at the summit of LaLiga, and have a last-16 meeting with Manchester City in the Champions League on the horizon.

Meanwhile, Brazil have a pair of upcoming friendlies in a few weeks against France and Croatia in preparation for the World Cup.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti must now reshuffle his pack without one of his key players.

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