On November 20 of that year (2022), Qatar will play host to the start of the World Cup. Regarding international football tournaments, the FIFA World Cup is undoubtedly the most prestigious. The 22nd World Cup is a pivotal event to be held in 2022. For many legendary football players, this signals the end of an era.
This will likely be the final World Cup for legends like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luis Suarez, Neymar Jr., and many more (probably). Unfortunately, some players won't be able to participate in the winter World Cup due to injury.
1. Paul Pogba
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The 2022-23 season is already underway, but Pogba has yet to make an appearance for Juventus. The French superstar couldn't play because of a knee ailment. However, he was projected to join the French World Cup roster upon his return. Sadly, Pogba aggravated his hamstring injury again while recovering, and he will not be able to participate in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
2. N’golo Kante
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Kante is a unique breed of athlete. He doesn't chip in with goals or assists, but he's indispensable in the middle. Kante drives forward for both Chelsea FC and France. Kante's tireless energy carried his team to success at the 2018 World Cup. He played in all seven of France's games in the World Cup. N'golo even got the nod in France's 4-2 championship game win over Croatia.
3. Diogo Jota
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The 2022-23 season is already underway, but Pogba has yet to make an appearance for Juventus. The French superstar couldn't play because of a knee ailment. However, he was projected to join the French World Cup roster upon his return. Sadly, Pogba aggravated his hamstring injury again while recovering, and he will not be able to participate in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
4. Paulo Dybala
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Dybala's final season with Juventus was less than ideal. At Juventus, he steadily lost form over the years. Even so, Paulo Dybala was met with an enthusiastic reception from AS Roma supporters. Jose Mourinho actively pursued signing the free agent to a three-year deal with the club. Dybala is entering his prime in top form. The 28-year-old has contributed to five goals and two assists in eight games. Furthermore, he has scored twice in three Europa League games for AS Roma.
5. Kyle Walker
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Since England has so many talented athletes, Gareth Southgate can pick from the best of the best. However, the absence of Reece James at right-back is a big setback. Due to England's lack of depth, Kyle Walker's importance has increased since Reece James was ruled out of the World Cup. Walker has a groin ailment, but he should get better soon.
6. Raphael Varane
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Manchester United started well and never slackened in a crucial match against Chelsea FC. The defense was able to hold its own against Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mason Mount, and the others. While attempting to make the interception, Raphael Varane was hurt. To prevent Aubameyang from receiving the ball, Varane rolled his ankle, leaving the field in tears. France's defense will be weaker without Kante and then without Varane.
7. Kalvin Phillips
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The clock is ticking for Kalvin to be in shape for the 2022 World Cup, just like Paulo Dybala. At the beginning of the season, Kalvin moved from Leeds to Manchester City. The 26-year-old has seen limited action under manager Pep Guardiola this season. He has yet to make his Manchester City debut in a starting role. Kalvin will never realize his dream of playing for England even though the Three Lions are deep in choices, especially in the middle of the field.
8. Angel Di Maria
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The Juve and Argentina winger won't be able to return to action until early November. Since he arrived in Argentina, Di Maria has become an integral part of the team. He scored the game-winning goal in the Copa America championship game. In the UEFA Champions League game against Maccabi Haifa, Di Maria suffered a mild hamstring strain.