Julián Álvarez receives plasma treatment for ankle injury ahead of World Cup

Argentina's star forward Julián Álvarez is receiving specialized plasma treatment to accelerate his recovery from an ankle issue ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Atlético Madrid player has been experiencing discomfort in his ankle, a lingering problem from an injury sustained in April during a Champions League match against Arsenal. Despite playing through the end of the season, he has not fully recovered.

To address the recurring pain, the national team's medical staff has implemented a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy aimed at speeding up tissue regeneration. Álvarez also reduced his training load, working exclusively in the gym with a physiotherapist during a recent practice session. This cautious approach reflects the team's strategy to avoid risks with key players just days before the tournament begins.

The priority is to ensure Álvarez is in peak physical condition for Argentina's opening match against Algeria on June 16. This might mean he will miss upcoming friendly matches against Honduras and Iceland. Álvarez had initially seemed to have overcome the injury upon arriving in Kansas City, completing a full training session. However, the demands of training and a long season, during which he played 49 matches, scored 20 goals, and provided nine assists for Atlético Madrid, necessitated a revised plan.

Álvarez is expected to be preserved for the Honduras friendly on Saturday, potentially featuring against Iceland next Tuesday in the final warm-up match. His condition will be monitored daily. He is not the only player facing fitness concerns; goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is also managing a minor finger fracture sustained in the Europa League final, with hopes he will be available for the World Cup opener.