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Wataru Endo Withdraws, Retires from Japan World Cup Squad

6/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Coach Hajime Moriyasu announced defender Wataru Endo withdraws from the World Cup squad and retires from international football because of a broken left foot.
Endo broke his left foot and ruptured a ligament in February against Sunderland, had surgery, and withdrew after pain following a 45-minute friendly versus Iceland on May 31.
Liverpool confirmed the withdrawal, recorded Endo’s 73 caps, and named Ko Itakura captain while adding Shuto Machino to the roster.

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Story summary

Coach Hajime Moriyasu announced defender Wataru Endo withdraws from the World Cup squad and retires from international football because of a broken left foot.
Endo broke his left foot and ruptured a ligament in February against Sunderland, had surgery, and withdrew after pain following a 45-minute friendly versus Iceland on May 31.
Liverpool confirmed the withdrawal, recorded Endo’s 73 caps, and named Ko Itakura captain while adding Shuto Machino to the roster.