Japan captain Wataru Endo ruled out of World Cup with foot injury
The Japan Football Association confirmed the withdrawal of Wataru Endo from the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad on 12 June 2026 due to persistent foot discomfort.
Japan national football team captain Wataru Endo has withdrawn from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America due to foot discomfort. The Japan Football Association confirmed the decision on 12 June 2026, ending Endo’s participation in the tournament.
Endo had been undergoing separate training adjustments for some time prior to the withdrawal, indicating that the issue had been managed independently from the main squad. The specific nature or severity of the foot injury has not been detailed in available reports, with officials describing the condition only as discomfort or an abnormality.
Forward Shuto Machino has been called up to replace Endo in the 26-player squad. The call-up ensures the team maintains its full roster size as it prepares for the competition.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being held across North America, featuring an expanded field of 48 teams. Japan’s squad selection reflects the logistical and tactical requirements of the expanded tournament format.
Endo’s absence marks a significant change for the Japanese national team, which will now proceed without its captain. The timing of the injury and the exact date the decision to withdraw was made remain unspecified beyond the confirmation date.
No further details regarding Endo’s long-term prognosis or impact on future matches have been released. The focus now shifts to the adjusted squad dynamics as Machino integrates into the team ahead of the group stage matches.
