Giulia Gwinn, Germany, Bayern Munich
19 May 2026

Giulia Gwinn will miss Germany’s decisive World Cup qualifying matches after it was confirmed she needs left shoulder surgery. The Bayern Munich defender dislocated her shoulder during Germany’s qualifier against Austria in April.

The DFB confirmed Gwinn will miss the matches against Norway and Slovenia in June. Germany can secure early qualification for the 2027 World Cup against Norway, but must do so without their captain.

Ella Toone, England, Sarina Wiegman
19 May 2026

Ella Toone returned to the England squad for Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Ukraine after missing recent Lionesses camps with a hip issue. Lucy Bronze, Aggie Beever-Jones and Freya Godfrey were also included.

Sarina Wiegman said Toone was ready to return, while Bronze is expected to recover from a minor injury. England lead their qualifying group and can secure automatic World Cup qualification by winning their remaining two matches.

Paul Pogba, Monaco
17 May 2026

Paul Pogba’s difficult season with Monaco ended early after the midfielder was ruled out of the club’s final Ligue 1 match because of a thigh injury. The former Manchester United player managed only six appearances throughout an injury-hit campaign.

Pogba struggled with recurring fitness issues after joining Monaco following the completion of his suspension. Monaco also face multiple absences ahead of their decisive clash against Strasbourg as they continue battling for qualification into next season’s Conference League.

Mallory Swanson, Chicago Stars, North Carolina Courage
17 May 2026

Mallory Swanson returned to competitive action for Chicago Stars after more than 18 months away following childbirth. The forward entered during the second half against North Carolina Courage, marking a major personal milestone ahead of upcoming international fixtures.

Swanson replaced a teammate in the 76th minute during Chicago’s 4-0 defeat and later described the comeback as the beginning of a completely new chapter. The United States forward had not played since helping secure Olympic gold before becoming a mother.

Manuel Neuer, Bayern Munich
17 May 2026

Manuel Neuer reassured Bayern Munich supporters after being substituted during the victory against Köln due to calf discomfort. The veteran goalkeeper confirmed the issue was precautionary, easing concerns ahead of Bayern’s DFB Cup final and possible World Cup involvement.

Neuer requested a substitution midway through the second half after feeling a minor calf issue during a goal kick sequence. The Bayern captain later celebrated normally with teammates and explained he avoided unnecessary risks before next week’s important final.