Mexico's Key Midfielder Ruiz Suffers Knee Injury Ahead of South Korea Clash The Mexican national football team, preparing to face South Korea in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA North America World Cup, faces mounting injury concerns as two key players are sidelined. Marcel Ruiz, a central midfielder under coach Javier Aguirre, suffered a knee injury during a match on March 12, deepening the squad’s challenges ahead of the tournament. Ruiz, 26, was playing for Toluca in the CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 first leg against San Diego when he collapsed during a challenge with opponent Manu Duah. The incident occurred around the 38th minute of the first half, with Ruiz clutching his right knee and falling to the ground. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, he grimaced in pain and covered his face with his hands before walking off the field on his own. While a stretcher was not required, the team remains anxious about the severity of the injury, as details are still pending. Ruiz is a versatile player capable of operating as an attacking, central, or defensive midfielder, and even as a forward. His absence would significantly weaken Mexico’s midfield, particularly given his role in the team’s recent 2-2 friendly draw against South Korea in October. The injury adds to the squad’s woes, as another key player, goalkeeper Luis Angel Malagon, has also been ruled out. Malagon, 29, sustained a non-contact Achilles tendon rupture during the same CONCACAF Champions Cup match against Philadelphia Union. The injury effectively excludes him from the World Cup, further straining Mexico’s already limited options. The loss of both players comes just days before Mexico’s crucial group stage clash against South Korea, scheduled for June 19 at Akron Stadium in Guadalajara.#south_korea #mexico #marcel_ruiz #javier_aguirre #luis_angel_malagon
Another Blow for the Mexican National Team: Marcel Ruiz Suffers a Brutal Knee Injury in Concachampions Match Mexican midfielder Marcel Ruiz suffered a severe knee injury during a match between Toluca and San Diego FC in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, leaving fans of both teams in anxious anticipation. The incident occurred in the 40th minute of the game when Ruiz collided with player Kwadwo Duah during a sprint. As the midfielder clutched his right knee in visible distress, the crowd at the stadium held its breath, unsure of the extent of the damage. Coach Antonio Mohamed swiftly decided to substitute Ruiz, bringing on Nicolás Castro to replace him. Despite the initial hope that Ruiz might continue playing, the midfielder eventually left the field on his own, though the concern for his condition remained high. The injury adds to a growing list of setbacks for key players on the Mexican National Team, where Ruiz has been a vital asset under the leadership of head coach Javier Aguirre. The severity of Ruiz’s knee injury remains uncertain, with medical professionals yet to provide a definitive assessment. Fans and the coaching staff are anxiously awaiting the official report, which will determine whether the midfielder will be sidelined for an extended period. Toluca supporters and national team followers are hoping for a rapid recovery, as Ruiz’s absence could significantly disrupt the team’s strategic plans. Ruiz’s role in the midfield has been critical, combining defensive solidity with offensive creativity. His ability to break through opposing lines and generate scoring opportunities has made him an indispensable player for both Toluca and the national team. Under Aguirre’s guidance, Ruiz has consistently delivered under pressure, making his potential exclusion a major concern for the team’s upcoming matches.#san_diego_fc #toluca #marcel_ruiz #kwadwo_duah #javier_aguirre
