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
