Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour has been officially declared unavailable for Scotland’s squad participating in the 2026 World Cup. This unfortunate development comes after he sustained an injury during a recent friendly game against Curaçao.
Concerns were raised when Gilmour went down shortly before halftime in the match, which Scotland won 4-1. While he was able to walk off the field without a significant limp, initial worries about his condition persisted.
Scotland manager Steve Clarke confirmed that the player underwent a scan on his knee, and medical staff expressed concern that the injury might prevent him from participating in the tournament.
Gilmour’s World Cup Aspirations Halted by Injury
The Scottish Football Association issued a statement this evening confirming that Gilmour has been diagnosed with a knee injury, which will unfortunately preclude him from taking part in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
He is set to return to his club, Napoli, to commence his rehabilitation, with the hope of being fit for the Serie A pre-season.
“I am devastated for Billy because he has been an integral part of our World Cup qualifying campaign. The timing of this injury is so, so cruel and we all feel for him,” stated Clarke. “He knows what we all think of him as a footballer and a person, and while no words will give him any comfort tonight, I am certain Billy will have many major tournaments ahead of him in the future.”
This season has already been challenging for Gilmour regarding injuries, limiting him to just 20 appearances and one goal. He had previously been sidelined from November 2025 to February 2026 due to groin surgery.
Gilmour will celebrate his 25th birthday next month by watching his Scottish teammates compete in the World Cup, which will be held across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
The former Brighton and Hove Albion player joined Napoli in 2024 and has since achieved success, winning the Serie A title and the Supercoppa Italiana during his two seasons with the club at the Stadio Maradona.