After Tyler Adams was withdrawn only minutes into Bournemouth’s 4-4 draw against Manchester United on Monday, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola confirmed Adams has torn his MCL, sidelining him for about two to three months. This injury poses a significant setback not just for Bournemouth, but also raises concerns over his participation in upcoming friendlies for the United States men’s national team against Belgium and Portugal in March.

In his pre-match press conference before facing Burnley, Iraola stated that losing Adams is a major loss and could necessitate a tactical adjustment.

“We’ve dealt with similar situations with other players. Typically, recovery takes two to three months,” Iraola noted. “This is a considerable loss because Adams is a crucial player for us.”

Adams, known for his unique defensive capabilities and ability to progress the ball, would be a vital asset in the 2026 World Cup. However, uncertainty remains regarding his fitness as he’s missed significant time with injuries since joining the Premier League.

USMNT Midfield Depth

If Adams isn’t fully fit for the World Cup, the U.S. national team will need to explore other options:

• Weston McKennie: A versatile midfielder who has been a key figure for the U.S. team despite inconsistency.
• Tanner Tessmann: Emerging as a defensive midfielder and gaining valuable experience in Europe.
• Aidan Morris: Has faced injuries but still remains an option when healthy.

Additionally, other players like Cristian Roldan and Yunus Musah could be in consideration depending on their performances leading up to the tournament.

In sum, Adams’ injury impact stretches beyond his club as it intertwines with national aspirations for the World Cup.