Shock Injury Threatens Messi’s Teammate’s 2026 World Cup Dream—Can Argentina Survive Without Him?

As the countdown to the World Cup ticks relentlessly forward, the atmosphere in the soccer world shifts to a delicate balance between fierce club competitions and the ticking clock to stay fit for the grand stage. It’s always a curious mix—while stars hustle on the pitch chasing glory, there’s this unspoken pact to tread cautiously, guarding against the brutal twist of fate that injury can bring. Yet, the drama unfolds regardless. Just recently, during a high-stakes La Liga clash, Villarreal’s Juan Foyth found himself grappling with a devastating setback after an unsettling leg injury put his World Cup dreams on shaky ground. Watching a player of Foyth’s versatility—someone who could be a pivotal wildcard for Argentina—struggle through what seems like a serious Achilles tendon issue has me wondering: can he make the bounce back in time? The long road ahead looks daunting. Naturally, this raises all sorts of questions about his rehabilitation timeline and what it means for Argentina’s squad planning as they eye the 2026 World Cup kickoff.

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The months leading up to every World Cup are usually unique. While clubs continue competing for major trophies during that stretch, the game’s biggest stars are often especially cautious to avoid injuries that could rule them out of the FIFA tournament. Even so, there are always unfortunate exceptions. That could be the case for one of Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammates.

On Saturday, Real Madrid defeated Villarreal 2-0 on La Liga Matchday 21 thanks to two goals from Kylian Mbappe. With the score still level midway through the first half, Juan Foyth went down after his left leg appeared to get stuck in the turf.

Clearly in pain, the 28-year-old defender was treated by the club’s medical staff, who after examining him informed head coach Marcelino to prepare a substitution. At the 24-minute mark, Rafa Marin entered the match in place of Foyth.

“It appears, pending confirmation from the Yellow Submarine, to be a significant Achilles tendon injury,” Marca reported shortly afterward regarding the Argentine defender’s situation. “Tests are still pending to confirm the diagnosis.”

Juan Foyth of Villarreal CF is supported by medical staff as he’s substituted off the pitch due to an injury.

How long does recovery from an Achilles tendon injury take?

A ruptured Achilles tendon is widely considered, along with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in the knee, one of the most serious injuries a soccer player can suffer. That is because it requires surgery, followed by a long and demanding rehabilitation process.

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In most cases, players need at least six months after Achilles tendon surgery before returning to competitive action. That is the most optimistic scenario, as full recovery can take up to a year for many athletes.

The 2026 World Cup seriously in doubt for Foyth

If the initial assessments are confirmed and Juan Foyth has indeed suffered a severe Achilles tendon injury, his presence at the 2026 World Cup would be all but ruled out. Argentina are set to open the tournament on June 16 against Algeria, which would leave the Villarreal defender with less than five months to recover.

Such an absence would pose a challenge for head coach Lionel Scaloni. While Foyth is not a top priority in the squad, with Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel holding more prominent roles at right back, his versatility — capable of playing both fullback and center back — makes him a valuable option. That flexibility gave him a strong chance of being included in Argentina‘s 26-man roster set to travel to North America this summer.