Spain’s preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup have been hindered by a serious injury to striker Samu Aghehowa. The Porto star, who has scored 20 times across competitions this season, seemed poised for selection in Luis de la Fuente’s squad for the summer tournament. Unfortunately, an ACL tear has dashed those hopes.

A Major Setback for Aghehowa

Aghehowa sustained the injury during a crucial match with Sporting CP which ended in a 1-1 draw. Porto released a statement stating that the forward suffered a sprained knee along with an ACL injury, and reports indicate that the ligament is torn, which could mean a significant period on the sidelines.

Porto’s Statement on Aghehowa’s Injury

Porto reported: “Samu, who was replaced at half-time during the match against Sporting (1-1), has a sprained right knee with an anterior cruciate ligament injury and will be re-evaluated by FC Porto’s medical team in the upcoming days.”

World Cup Aspirations in Jeopardy

Though there remains a slim hope Samu may heal in time for the World Cup starting on June 11, the prognosis suggests a longer recovery, likely ruling him out of Spain’s plans for the tournament. At just 21, he has netted 47 goals in 77 appearances for Porto, and while he may not have been a starting player, he would have been a valuable asset for La Roja in North America.

Spain’s Backup Plans

The European champions will now have to look for alternatives for the striker role. Mikel Oyarzabal has been the primary option during past World Cup qualifiers as well as in the 2025 Nations League. Luis de la Fuente has limited other viable choices, including veteran Alvaro Morata, Borja Iglesias of Celta Vigo, and Jorge de Frutos from Rayo Vallecano.