Here is the latest injury update on Muhammed Kudus and the possibility of him playing at the 2026 World Cup for Ghana.
Mohammed Kudus is facing a race against time to be fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a cruel setback in his recovery from a significant quad injury.
The 25-year-old was first sidelined in early January during Tottenham’s 1-1 draw with Sunderland, with a lay-off initially expected to last around three months. He appeared to be making promising progress, returning to team training in early April, only for his hopes to be dashed when a recurrence of the problem was confirmed. Tottenham have since stated that he will require further specialist review and potentially surgery.
After approximately three months already lost to the injury, a setback of this nature, particularly if surgery is required, could mean a further three or more months on the sidelines, a timeline that overlaps directly with Ghana’s World Cup preparations and the tournament itself.
The stakes for Ghana could hardly be higher. The Black Stars secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a 1-0 victory over Comoros in Accra last October, finishing top of CAF Group I with 25 points from a possible 30. Kudus was central to that campaign as his decisive goal in the 47th minute ensured the Black Stars of Ghana secured a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
For Ghana, the possible absence of one of their most influential attacking players would be a major blow as they prepare for their group-stage campaign. While no official decision has been made regarding his World Cup status, the recurring nature of his injuries and the uncertainty surrounding his recovery have fuelled anxiety among fans and officials alike.
New Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi has described Kudus as “a crucial player, especially for the position,” though he acknowledged that the club must look forward in his absence. The sentiment at Tottenham mirrors what will be felt in the Ghana camp, admiration for the player, but a growing acceptance that plans may need to be made without him.
The 2026 World Cup kicks off in June across the United States, Canada and Mexico, leaving very little margin for error. Should surgery prove necessary and recovery follow the longer projected timeline, Kudus would be in a desperate fight to prove his fitness before squads are named. Ghana will be hoping for a miracle recovery, but for now, the current situation is far from encouraging.