Story perspectives

Endo Retires, Japan Names Itakura Captain, Adds Machino

6/12/2026

Summary

Endo Withdraws

On June 11, Wataru Endo withdrew from Japan’s 2026 World Cup squad and retired from international football because of a foot injury.
After left-foot surgery in February, Endo felt pain in the half of the May 31 friendly against Iceland, leading Hajime Moriyasu to confirm his removal three days before Group F opener on June 14.
Borussia Mönchengladbach striker Shuto Machino joined the 26-man roster.
Ajax defender Ko Itakura was named the new Samurai Blue captain.

Summary

Endo Pursues Extension

Endo is in the final year of his Liverpool contract and will try to prove fitness for an extension, although manager Andoni Iraola says his tenacity may not fit the system.
Endo will miss the start of Liverpool’s 2026-27 season, joining Jeremie Frimpong and Curtis Jones in rehab.
He played minutes for Japan at the 2022 World Cup and would be 37 in 2030, prompting speculation about his future.

History

Historical Context

Japan’s first World Cup in 1998 ended with three losses, including Masashi Nakayama’s historic goal on 26 June, and the team finished 31st. Since then Japan has qualified seven times and reached the knockout round four times. In 2024 defender Wataru Endo withdrew from the pending 2026 squad after foot surgery, prompting coach Hajime Moriyasu to call up Shuto Machino and appoint Ko Itakura as captain.

1 of 3

Endo Withdraws

On June 11, Wataru Endo withdrew from Japan’s 2026 World Cup squad and retired from international football because of a foot injury.
After left-foot surgery in February, Endo felt pain in the half of the May 31 friendly against Iceland, leading Hajime Moriyasu to confirm his removal three days before Group F opener on June 14.
Borussia Mönchengladbach striker Shuto Machino joined the 26-man roster.
Ajax defender Ko Itakura was named the new Samurai Blue captain.

1 / 3