Lyon midfielder Tanner Tessmann, a key contender for the U.S. Men's National Team's starting lineup, will miss the final two Ligue 1 matches due to a muscle strain. Manager Paulo Fonseca confirmed the injury Friday, ruling out the American ahead of Lyon's crucial clash with Toulouse and the season finale against Lens. With the World Cup approaching in weeks, this setback raises fresh concerns for USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter's midfield plans.
Tessmann's Role at Lyon and Dip in Form
Tessmann appeared in 29 Ligue 1 matches this season, often filling roles as a defensive midfielder or even centerback. His versatility proved valuable, supplemented by three Coupe de France outings and nine Europa League games, where he scored a decisive goal against FC Utrecht in September. Recent months saw his minutes dwindle to substitute duty, yet his experience remains critical for Lyon's third-place push and Champions League qualification.
USMNT Midfield Under Injury Threat
Tessmann's absence compounds problems for the USMNT, as Atletico Madrid's Johnny Cardoso nurses an ankle injury with similar timing. Both players vie for starting spots alongside Tyler Adams in central midfield, a group central to America's World Cup ambitions. Tessmann's recent international form-six caps in 2025 with a goal against Uruguay, plus starts against Ecuador, Paraguay, Belgium, and Portugal-positioned him as a lock for contention.
World Cup Timeline Adds Pressure
The USMNT squad announcement comes May 26 in New York City, followed by friendlies against Senegal on May 31 and Germany on June 6. Group play opens June 12 versus Paraguay at SoFi Stadium. Fitness doubts over Tessmann and Cardoso could force Berhalter to rethink selections, testing the depth of a midfield already tested by injuries. Lyon's match Saturday against Toulouse-featuring USMNT defender Mark McKenzie-underscores the interconnected stakes for American players abroad.