The U.S. Men's National Team is facing a growing injury crisis just weeks before the World Cup, with midfielder Tanner Tessmann the latest player sidelined. Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca confirmed Friday that Tessmann will miss the remainder of the French club's season due to a muscle strain. With only two league games left—against Toulouse and Lens—the versatile 24-year-old won't feature again before the World Cup.
Tessmann's injury adds to mounting concerns for head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who is set to announce his 26-man roster on May 26. Just a day earlier, Atletico Madrid revealed that U.S. midfielder Johnny Cardoso sprained his right ankle in training, with no clear timeline for his return. Both players were considered strong candidates for the squad, which will begin training on May 27 in Fayetteville, Georgia.
The timing couldn't be more critical. The U.S. opens its World Cup campaign on June 13 against Paraguay in Inglewood, California, before facing Australia and Turkey in Group D. Tessmann's ability to play both midfield and center back made him a valuable tactical asset, and his absence forces Pochettino to reconsider his depth chart during a crucial preparation window.
For now, fans will be watching closely as the U.S. medical staff monitors these injuries ahead of the tournament. Every player's recovery will be vital as the team looks to make a deep run on home soil.
