Cardoso sprains ankle in training five weeks before World Cup

Atletico Madrid announced Thursday that United States midfielder Johnny Cardoso sprained his right ankle during a training session, five weeks before the World Cup. The club stated Cardoso will begin physiotherapy and rehabilitation sessions in the gym, with his return to competition depending on recovery progress. No timetable was provided.

La Liga has four rounds remaining, and Atletico Madrid is targeting a top-four finish. The club was knocked out by Arsenal in the Champions League semifinals this week.

The 24-year-old Cardoso has earned 23 caps for the United States since his debut in 2020.

The United States opens its Group D World Cup campaign on June 13 against Paraguay in Inglewood, California, followed by matches against Australia and Turkey.