Atlético Madrid confirmed that American midfielder Johnny Cardoso will require surgery on his right ankle to address structural damage. The Spanish club made the announcement on Monday, though specific details about the injury's severity or how it occurred weren't immediately disclosed. This development comes at a critical time in the season and raises questions about when the midfielder might return to action.

Cardoso has been an important player for Atlético Madrid since joining the club, providing defensive stability and work rate in the midfield. For the USMNT, he represents a key piece of their midfield puzzle as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures. The injury and subsequent surgery represent a significant blow to both club and country's plans.

The timeline for Cardoso's recovery will be crucial to monitor in the coming weeks. Ankle surgeries typically sideline players for several months, which could impact Atlético's squad depth during a busy stretch of La Liga and European competition. Fans will be watching for updates on his rehabilitation progress and expected return date.