Johnny Cardoso
24-Year-Old
Atlético Madrid
La Liga
2026 Fantasy Outlook
Cardoso's first season at Atletico after arriving from Real Betis was defined by injury trouble, as the American midfielder made just 15 La Liga appearances (12 starts), across 892 minutes without registering a goal or assist. He battled five separate injuries over the course of the campaign, with a high-grade ankle sprain sustained during training in early May ultimately ruling him out for Atletico's final four league matches of the season and the World cup with the USA. When available, Cardoso showed the defensive instincts that made him a target for Atletico, recording 37 tackles and 16 interceptions in limited action. For 2026/27, Cardoso's outlook hinges almost entirely on staying healthy, as his underlying defensive profile suggests real upside if he can string together a full season in manager Diego Simeone's midfield.
Fully fit in preseason
Cardoso (ankle) is fully fit and training fully with the team without any issues, the club posted.
ANALYSIS
Cardoso underwent ankle surgery after suffering a high grade sprain in training, an injury that also cost him a spot at the World Cup with the United States. He made 12 starts in 15 appearances last season before the setback, and his full return to team training is an encouraging sign as he looks to regain a regular role in Atletico Madrid's midfield heading into the new 2026/27 La Liga season.
Cardoso underwent ankle surgery after suffering a high grade sprain in training, an injury that also cost him a spot at the World Cup with the United States. He made 12 starts in 15 appearances last season before the setback, and his full return to team training is an encouraging sign as he looks to regain a regular role in Atletico Madrid's midfield heading into the new 2026/27 La Liga season.
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More Fantasy News
Back on the grass
Cardoso (ankle) has returned to outdoor training, according to Atletico MD.
ANALYSIS
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Missing World Cup due to surgery
Cardoso is set for ankle surgery due to an ankle sprain with joint involvement, according to his club.
ANALYSIS
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Will miss rest of season
Cardoso will miss the rest of the season with a right ankle sprain, the club confirmed Thursday.
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Forced to leave training Thursday
Cardoso (undisclosed) was forced to leave Thursday's team training session visibly distressed after taking a knock during a training exercise, with medical tests scheduled in the coming hours to determine the extent of the issue, according to David G. Medina of Marca.
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Available for second leg
Cardoso (thigh) returned to training with the group Monday and is an option for Tuesday's Champions League return leg against Barcelona, according to the club.
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Latest Fantasy Rumors
EPL teams after him
Chelsea and Bournemouth are interested in signing Cardoso, according to Fichajes.
ANALYSIS
Tottenham have shown an intention to sign Cardoso, but the midfielder is gaining more admirers in the Premier League. Chelsea and Bournemouth are both keeping close tabs, though it's unclear if either side will aim to sign the Betis and USMNT midfielder.
Tottenham have shown an intention to sign Cardoso, but the midfielder is gaining more admirers in the Premier League. Chelsea and Bournemouth are both keeping close tabs, though it's unclear if either side will aim to sign the Betis and USMNT midfielder.