Sixteen FC Barcelona players participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup have put significant strain on the club’s overall fitness levels. After just one matchday, the team is already contending with injuries to three of its captains, who have shouldered substantial playing time during the event.
The first to suffer was Uruguay’s captain Ronald Araújo, who returned to Barcelona before his national team’s opening game. His availability for the upcoming match against Cape Verde remains doubtful. The second injured captain is Frenkie de Jong, who sustained a setback during the Netherlands’ draw with Japan. Despite the discomfort, he completed the full 90 minutes but his participation in the next fixture versus Sweden is uncertain.
Most notably, the club lost its third captain, Raphinha. The Brazilian exited the game against Haiti in the 40th minute due to injury, casting doubt over his continuation in the tournament. The loss of these three key leaders has already depleted Barcelona’s options in both defense and midfield.
Additionally, young talent Lamine Yamal entered the World Cup recovering from a prior injury sustained before the competition, missing the end of the domestic season to regain fitness. He made a brief but impactful appearance off the bench in Spain’s opener but admitted he is not yet at full capacity. He is unlikely to start in the following match against Costa Rica.
From Barcelona’s standpoint, the tournament represents a rigorous test for player health amid a congested calendar and intense match demands. The injuries to Araújo, de Jong, and Raphinha have already taken a tangible toll. The coaching staff faces the challenge of managing minutes carefully to preserve squad strength throughout the remainder of the season.
Given the heavy involvement of Barcelona players in their national teams, the physical repercussions of the World Cup could continue for months. Strategic recovery programs and squad rotation will be essential for maintaining competitiveness and reducing further injury risks.
