News Focus
- Napoli midfielder suffers knee injury during international friendly
- Medical scans confirm player misses 2026 World Cup finals
- Gilmour returns to Italy to begin rehabilitation programme
- Scotland manager pays tribute to key qualifying campaign member
Scotland’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup have suffered a major setback. Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour will miss the tournament after picking up a knee problem.
The injury happened during Scotland’s 4-1 friendly win against Curacao. Gilmour fell to the ground just before half-time. He walked off the pitch without a heavy limp, which gave fans hope.
However, medical tests brought bad news. Manager Steve Clarke revealed that scans showed damage to the player’s knee. The Scottish Football Association confirmed the diagnosis on Thursday evening. They stated that Gilmour cannot play in the World Cup finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The 24-year-old will travel back to Naples to begin his recovery. He hopes to return for Napoli’s pre-season training ahead of the new Serie A campaign.
Clarke expressed his sadness about the situation. He said the team feels devastated for the player. Gilmour played a key role during the qualifying matches. The manager described the timing as cruel.
“He knows our opinion of him as a footballer and person,” Clarke stated. “No words can comfort him now. But Billy will play in many major tournaments in future.”
Injuries have troubled Gilmour throughout this season. He made only twenty appearances and scored one goal. The player also missed four months after groin surgery between November 2025 and February 2026.
Gilmour celebrates his twenty-fifth birthday next month. Unfortunately, he will spend that time watching his international teammates compete at the World Cup.
The former Brighton and Hove Albion star joined Napoli in 2024. He won the Italian league title and the Supercoppa Italiana during his two years at the Stadio Maradona.