Some of the best players will be putting on a show at the 2022 FIFA World Cup as 32 teams go head-to-head for the top prize in international football. However, there are a few star names that won't be gracing Qatar due to unfortunate injuries.
We take a look at some of the best players fans will miss in the month-long tournament.
God had another plan for me. I will be supporting my team, my nation, my country from far away but my heart is with them! Best of luck to all the selected players @equipedefrance pic.twitter.com/KG3riqWNQI— Paul Pogba (@paulpogba) November 10, 2022
1) Paul Pogba - France
There isn't a name bigger than Paul Pogba on this list. The mercurial Juventus midfielder has not played a single game in the 2022/23 season after injuring his knee in the summer. He underwent surgery to repair the torn meniscus and will not be available for France's defence of the World Cup title.
2) Reece James - England
Reece James was touted as England's first-choice Right Back
for Gareth Southgate's men, fending off some tough competition for the spot. However, the Chelsea defender's World Cup dream came down crashing in October after he injured his knee against Italian side AC Milan in the Champions League. England will sorely miss the 22-year-old at Qatar.
3) Diogo Jota - Portugal
The Liverpool striker will miss out on his first World Cup with Portgual after injuring his calf in a 1-0 victory at home to Manchester City. The injury, which was sustained on October 16, will not require surgery but is enough to keep Jota away from football action until at least mid December.
4) Timo Werner - Germany
The RB Leipzig forward injured his ankle in a Champions League match against Shaktar Donetsk. Werner must be livid with himself since the incident happened on November 1, only just over a fortnight before the World Cup.
5) Giovani Lo Celso - Argentina
Lionel Messi and Co. will miss out on a very key player in Giovani Lo Celso. The elegant left-footed midfielder, who is an integral part of Argetina's midfielder, injured his hamstring while playing for his club Villarreal.
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