Jack Grealish at risk of missing World Cup 2026 due to stress fracture in his foot

Jack Grealish completed the full 90 minutes in his club’s 1-0 win over Aston Villa at the weekend. However, according to The Athletic, the England international has sustained a foot injury that could sideline him for a substantial part of the season.

Everton also had released their official statement: "Everton Football Club can confirm Jack Grealish has sustained a foot injury.

"Jack is currently under the care of the Club’s medical team and will also be reviewed by a specialist in the coming days. Further updates will be provided in due course."

While this represents a setback for the Toffees, Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye are set to return from the Africa Cup of Nations after the duo lifted the AFCON 2025 title with Senegal on Sunday.

Grealish has enjoyed an impressive season so far, but an extended period on the sidelines could severely undermine the winger’s hopes of forcing his way into England’s World Cup squad this summer.

Grealish has recorded two goals and six assists for Everton so far this season, with only Manchester City’s rising star Ryan Cherki and Manchester United playmaker Bruno Fernandes registering more assists. The England midfielder had only recently returned to the starting line-up after serving a suspension that saw him miss Everton’s FA Cup defeat to Sunderland a fortnight ago.

Had he maintained this trajectory, Grealish would have been firmly in contention for a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for this year’s World Cup. However, he now faces a tough battle to realise that ambition. The setback could also put his prospects of securing a permanent move to Everton at risk, with the club holding an option to sign the experienced England international for £50m ($67m) this summer.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by three North American nations — the United States, Mexico and Canada — from June 11 to July 19, with the final taking place in New Jersey. It will be the first time the tournament features 48 participating nations.

England under Tuchel’s management has been drawn in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana and Panama. They will begin their campaign on June 18, when they face 2018 runners-up Croatia.