Azzurri Star At Risk Of Missing World Cup Playoff As Defender Faces Lengthy Spell On Sidelines
After another injury setback, Destiny Udogie is at risk of missing Italy's 2026 World Cup playoff semi final clash.
Louis Fargher
Updated on 16 December 2025
Destiny Udogie has been dealt a fresh injury setback and the Italian international is set to miss the remainder of 2025.
Destiny Udogie Ruled Out Until 2026
The Azzurri star hoped to have already recovered from a slight tissue injury that occurred on December 2nd, however, Udogie’s situation has suffered another blow.
After missing Tottenham’s last three matches, it has now been confirmed that the 23-year-old will be out until 2026 – with further tests revealing a significant hamstring issue.
Udogie suffered the initial injury during Spurs’ 2-2 draw with Newcastle and this setback is said to have occurred in the following days which has kept him out of action.
One man that will be hoping for a speedy recovery is Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso, as Italy prepare for the World Cup playoff semi final clash against Northern Ireland.
The Italian boss has called Udogie up to the national team once since taking the reins from Luciano Spalletti, but the Tottenham star was an unused substitute against Estonia and Israel.
The opening months of 2026 will be a pivotal moment for Italian soccer stars, as Gattuso will be creating a squad based on performances.
One example of a player that is prioritizing this is Newcastle star Sandro Tonali, as the Italian pushes for a Serie A return in hopes of cementing a place in the Azzurri midfield.
As for Udogie, missing the entirety of January and possibly February will be a huge blow to his chances of featuring for Italy – but his club situation may also take a hit.
Spurs Unsure Over Udogie Future
The Lilywhites are reportedly concerned over Udogie’s future, as the Italian has already missed 45 matches through injury since joining the club in August 2022.
Last season, the Italian defender missed 13 matches through injury and Udogie has already been absent for eight fixtures this season.
This injury record has sent alarm bells around North London and Spurs are willing to consider offers for the 23-year-old in 2026.
Juventus were heavily linked with Udogie in the recent summer transfer window, but a deal failed to materialize as the Bianconeri were unwilling to meet Spurs’ €35-40million price tag.
The Serie A side are looking to make some adjustments to their roster in January, prioritizing a solution for Kenan Yildiz’s contract dilemma while also targeting reinforcements.
Spurs signed Udogie for €18m in August 2022 and the Italian still has five-years remaining on his deal in North London, meaning Juventus would need to commit to Tottenham’s €35-40m asking price.
Louis Fargher
Louis has been an avid soccer enthusiast for multiple years and boasts knowledge across several leagues in Europe - including Serie A. Louis holds a degree in Soccer Journalism and has produced content for multiple clubs in the United Kingdom.
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