Josko Gvardiol is not officially “out” of the 2026 World Cup yet, but his participation is in serious doubt because he has suffered a fracture of the tibia in his right leg and needs surgery, which is expected to sideline him for several months.
What the injury is
- Manchester City confirmed that Gvardiol has a tibial fracture in his right leg sustained in the 1–1 draw against Chelsea, and he will undergo surgery.
- The club have not given a formal return date but expect him to be out for “a number of months.”
World Cup Impact
- Early reports from doctors say he will be out for at least four to five months. Since the World Cup starts in June 2026, there is a real chance he might not be fit in time to play.
- He has suggested on social media that he might not be able to play in the World Cup, but he has also promised to work hard to return stronger for both Manchester City and Croatia.
Also Read: Cheapest Cities to Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 for Indian Fans
Current status for Croatia
- He will not play for Croatia in their friendly matches in the United States this spring, and he will probably miss most or even the rest of this club season.
- The situation is not clear yet, and he has not definitely pulled out. We will only know for sure after seeing how his surgery and recovery go in the next few months.
