Liverpool attacker Diogo Jota will miss the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with a muscle injury, according to Portuguese outlet A Bola.
Jota injured himself in last weekend’s win over Manchester City and left the pitch on a stretcher.
He will be out for longer than a month, and there is no time for him to recover before the final call-up.
The tournament starts on November 20, a month and two days away. He cannot recover and get match-fit to make the plane to Qatar.
Jota is out of any plans that legendary Portugal boss Fernando Santos may have for the World Cup.
He could have contributed to Portugal through the middle or from the left flank. He also possesses an incredible work rate that he uses for his team defensively.
However, Jota’s injury could open a starting slot for AC Milan attacker Rafael Leao.
The Serie A MVP has not consistently shown his best form for the national team, but Jota’s absence is a chance.
Leao’s pace, trickery and decisiveness could help Portugal go far in the tournament. Despite his poor club form, Cristiano Ronaldo could take the centre-forward position if Santos decides to take him.
Ronaldo could also stay wide, with Andre Silva playing as the traditional number nine.
Jota’s injury is also a blow for Liverpool. Luis Diaz is out with a long-term injury. Jota took the starting spot on the left side of the attack, but this injury will sideline him.
Jurgen Klopp may play Fabio Carvalho on the left, but it is not ideal. The club needs attacking reinforcements in January.
