Japan's Minamino Tears ACL, Jeopardizes 2026 World Cup

Takumi Minamino, a key midfielder for Japan's national soccer team, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a French Cup match on Sunday, casting serious doubt on his participation in the 2026 World Cup.

The 30-year-old Monaco player was injured in his team's 2-1 victory over Auxerre. Medical examinations conducted the following day confirmed the rupture, according to an official statement from AS Monaco. Such injuries typically require six to nine months of recovery, which would sideline Minamino well beyond the tournament's start date of June 11, 2026, in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Monaco's announcement highlighted the midfielder's importance to the club, stating that he "will be able to count on the support of the entire Club" during his rehabilitation. The injury occurred during the 32nd round of the Coupe de France, a knockout competition that adds to the physical demands on players midway through the European season.

For Japan, known as the Samurai Blue, Minamino's absence represents a major setback. The former Liverpool and Red Bull Salzburg forward has earned 73 caps since his international debut, scoring 26 goals. He featured in...