Franck Kessie latest to join Kalidou Koulibaly, Achraf Hakimi and Mohamed Salah in 2026 World Cup fitness battle

A growing injury cloud over several national team captains is threatening to reshape the narrative ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Ivory Coast skipper Franck Kessié emerging as the latest concern in a worrying trend among leading nations.

Kessié’s setback came during Al-Ahli Saudi FC’s commanding 3-0 win over Al Fateh FC, where the midfielder lasted just over half an hour before being withdrawn in visible discomfort.

With no official medical update yet released, uncertainty continues to surround his condition.

His subsequent absence from the squad for the King’s Cup clash against Al Kholood has only deepened fears in Abidjan, particularly with a high-profile friendly against France national football team looming.

The 29-year-old has been central to Al-Ahli’s campaign, starting the majority of league fixtures and recently delivering a standout performance with a brace against Al Akhdoud Club. His influence extends beyond club level, where he is on the brink of reaching 100 caps for the Elephants.

Elsewhere, Kalidou Koulibaly faces a race against time after suffering a thigh injury in training with Al-Hilal SFC. The defender has not featured since early April, and with limited matches left before squad selections, concerns are mounting over his readiness.

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi is also managing a thigh issue picked up during Paris Saint-Germain’s European campaign, while Egypt’s talisman Mohamed Salah is edging closer to recovery after a recent hamstring problem with Liverpool FC.

With Ivory Coast set to open their campaign against Ecuador before facing Germany and Curaçao, the fitness of Kessié and his fellow captains could prove decisive in shaping not only their teams’ fortunes, but the competitive balance of the tournament itself.