The 2022 FIFA World Cup is set to take place in Qatar next month with 32 of the best football countries in the world dreaming of lifting the famous trophy at the Lusail Iconic Stadium on December 18.
For all top footballers, participating in the World Cup while representing their nations has already been the dream. However, the workload of playing regular club football has taken a toll on a few players.
Here are five famous footballers who will miss the 2022 FIFA World Cup because of injuries.
Angel Di Maria
The Argentina talent made a positive start to this campaign with Juventus as he found the back of the net once and secured four assists in seven matches for the Italian club this season across all fronts. However, Di Maria picked up a muscle injury which will now rule him out of this year’s World Cup.
Paulo Dybala
Dybala has picked up a serious hamstring injury which has made him a serious doubt for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He has banged in seven goals and grabbed two assists in 11 matches for Roma this season in all competitions.
N’Golo Kante
The French midfield ace is currently out of action with a hamstring problem as well. He played an influential role in France’s World Cup win back in 2018. Hence, losing him to injury will be a bitter pill to swallow for Les Bleus ahead of the World Cup.
Ronaldo Araujo
Araujo is currently sidelined with a long-term injury. He will definitely miss the World Cup which could leave his nation, Uruguay vulnerable and short of options at the back.
Diogo Jota
The Portugal international picked up a severe injury against Manchester City earlier this month. Hence, he won’t be available for selection for Portugal in this year’s World Cup.
Other notable absentees include the names of Georginio Wijanldum and Pedro Neto.