Full Breakdown
Japan Excludes Captain Wataru Endo from World Cup Squad Over Foot Injury
6/14/2026, 1:32:08 PM
Core Decision: Endo Omitted from World Cup Roster
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu announced on the eve of the Group F opener against the Netherlands that midfielder and captain Wataru Endo would not travel to the tournament. Medical staff concluded his left-foot injury would likely prevent full-match participation.
Background & Context
Endo, a 33-year-old Liverpool midfielder, suffered a broken left foot and ruptured ligament in a February clash with Sunderland. He underwent surgery, returned for a 1-0 warm-up win over Iceland on 31 May, and played 45 minutes in a friendly before persistent pain forced withdrawal. Endo has 73 caps, featured in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, and announced his retirement from international football after the decision.
Key Personnel Changes
Defender Ko Itakura (Ajax) was named captain; forward Shuto Machino (Borussia Mönchengladbach) replaced Endo.
Timeline
Official Statements & Responses
Moriyasu said medical staff “monitored Endo closely” and that his participation “may be difficult for him to perform for the entire period of the games,” calling it “a decision that had to be made.” Endo’s post stressed he “has done everything I could and have no regret,” adding he will “cheer for the Japan national team as one of the fans.” Liverpool confirmed the withdrawal and Endo’s retirement.
Criticism & Opposition
No dissenting commentary or criticism of the decision appeared in the available reports.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources vary in describing the injury: some cite a “broken left foot and ruptured ligament,” others a generic “left foot injury,” while another mentions a “broken foot.” Precise medical prognosis and rehabilitation timeline remain unspecified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We discussed that throughout the World Cup, it may be difficult for him to perform for the entire period of the games.” — Hajime Moriyasu, Japan coach
- “Since my injury, I've done everything I possibly could up to this point, so I have no regrets whatsoever. From here on, I'll be cheering for the Japan national team as one of the fans.” — Wataru Endo, Japanese midfielder
- “Wataru Endo has withdrawn from Japan's World Cup squad due to injury, and announced his retirement from international football. Keep your head up, Wata.” — Liverpool FC (official statement)
What’s Next for Japan
Japan faces the Netherlands in its Group F opener with Ko Itakura as captain. Shuto Machino provides a forward option, and the team will adjust its midfield strategy to compensate for Endo’s absence.
