The United States men's national team has hit another injury snag just weeks before head coach Mauricio Pochettino is set to announce his World Cup roster on May 26. Atletico Madrid midfielder Johnny Cardoso has been diagnosed with a high-grade sprain in his right ankle, according to the club. While he hasn't been officially ruled out for the remainder of the club season—which wraps up on May 24 with just four games left—it's tough to see him taking the pitch again for Madrid this term. The bigger concern? This setback could seriously threaten his availability for the USMNT.

Recovery timelines vary from player to player, but a sprain of this severity can sideline someone for months, casting a long shadow over Cardoso's hopes of competing in a World Cup on home soil. During the March international break, he was already limited to just 45 minutes against Belgium before heading back to Madrid early to manage an aggravated injury. This latest blow is crushing for both the player and a national team that leans heavily on his grit in the center of the park.

Cardoso's rise has been impressive. By starting both legs of Atletico Madrid's Champions League semifinal loss to Arsenal, he became just the second American to play in both legs of a semifinal, joining Christian Pulisic, who did it with Chelsea. Under Diego Simeone, Cardoso has developed into a formidable all-around midfielder since arriving from Real Betis. But Pochettino has struggled to count on him consistently due to recurring injuries, and this latest issue is a tough reminder of that fragility.

While Tyler Adams is back playing for Bournemouth, his own injury history means Pochettino will want multiple defensive midfield options available—especially if Christian Pulisic's scoring struggles persist. Cardoso is the most natural replacement for Adams if needed, but two midfielders who could benefit most from his absence are Tanner Tessmann and Aidan Morris. Tessmann brings the added ability to slot in at center back in a pinch, a valuable trait given the team's lack of top-tier defensive depth. He's also been playing well in the center of the pitch for Lyon, strengthening his case for a World Cup spot. Meanwhile, Morris has crucial games ahead for Middlesbrough as they navigate the Championship playoffs, aiming for promotion to the Premier League—a high-stakes run that could keep him sharp and in Pochettino's plans.