Neymar, João Pedro (Brazil National Team)
March 2025 (World Cup Qualifiers)
Neymar remains sidelined with injury, while Dorival praises João Pedro’s versatility as a potential attacking asset.
Neymar’s absence forces Brazil to adapt their attack, with Brighton forward João Pedro emerging as an option in various forward roles.
Michail Antonio, West Ham United
Recovery ongoing, expected return within 6-12 months
Antonio insists he will play professional football again after suffering a shattered leg in a December car crash.
The 34-year-old is ahead of schedule in his recovery, working six days a week to regain fitness. He remains determined to return despite the severity of his injuries.
Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool → Netherlands National Team)
March 2025
Gravenberch has been forced to withdraw from the Netherlands squad due to an injury sustained in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final loss.
The midfielder will now be monitored ahead of Liverpool’s crucial Premier League clash against Everton on April 2.
Cole Palmer (Chelsea), England National Team
March 2025
Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer will remain with his club for further assessment on an injury sustained in training last week. He will not be part of England’s squad for their upcoming fixtures.
The injury, suffered during Chelsea’s training sessions, requires further evaluation, preventing Palmer from joining Gareth Southgate’s England squad. His recovery timeline remains uncertain.
Andy Robertson, Liverpool
March 2025 (ahead of Scotland’s Nations League playoff)
Robertson rejected speculation about his Liverpool future, insisting he remains the club’s first-choice left-back despite transfer rumors.
The 31-year-old addressed criticism of his form after recovering from an ankle ligament injury, stating he has performed consistently and remains confident in his abilities. He also emphasized his pride in eight years at the club.
Mason Mount, Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
Ongoing injury concerns since December 2024
Mount and Shaw remain sidelined due to hamstring and calf injuries, respectively, with their availability uncertain.
Mount has missed 51 games since joining United, while Shaw has been absent more than he has played since 2014. Both are facing scrutiny over their prolonged absences.
Memphis Depay (Corinthians → Netherlands National Team)
March 2025
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has confirmed Depay will lead the attack against Spain in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal.
The 31-year-old, who signed for Corinthians in October, has regained fitness and looks sharp in training. He is five goals away from becoming his country’s all-time top scorer.
Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid)
April 2025
Antonio Rüdiger underwent successful surgery for a partial meniscus tear and is expected to miss up to two months, ruling him out for the rest of the LaLiga season and jeopardizing his Club World Cup participation.
Rüdiger injured his knee during the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, played on with pain, and later apologized for unsportsmanlike conduct. He is targeting a return for the Nations League and Club World Cup.
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
August 2025
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta fears long absences for Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka after both exited their 5-0 win against Leeds with injuries. Odegaard limped off early, while Saka pulled up after the break with a suspected hamstring issue. Already without Kai Havertz, Arsenal’s midfield depth is stretched thin. Tests will confirm severity, but Arteta admitted concern. With Liverpool looming, the absence of his captain and star winger could derail early title momentum.