Japan’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have faced a setback with the last-minute withdrawal of captain Wataru Endo, just three days prior to their Group F opener against the Netherlands in Arlington.
The 33-year-old Liverpool midfielder has also announced his immediate retirement from international football. Endo has been battling a foot injury that required surgery while playing for Liverpool since late February. Despite initially appearing fit enough to be selected for Samurai Blue’s 26-man roster, he will now be absent alongside other key players such as Kaoru Mitoma and Takumi Minamino.
Concerns about Endo’s fitness grew after he played only half of a warm-up match against Iceland on May 31, ultimately being substituted due to discomfort. At that time, Japan’s national team coach, Hajime Moriyasu, reassured fans by stating, “According to the medical report, there’s nothing that says he can’t play. So we just have to believe and pray and wait.”
As a result of his withdrawal, Japan will need to replace Endo with Borussia Mönchengladbach striker Shuto Machino, who, while talented, does not offer the same experience as Endo ahead of what is shaping up to be a challenging match against the Netherlands.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Endo stated, “As announced, I will not be part of the World Cup squad. I’m disappointed that we can’t participate, but I’m proud of how we’ve grown together since the Qatar World Cup, leading the team as captains and striving for the goal of winning.” He expressed confidence in the current squad, emphasizing their strength and resilience.
He continued, “I believe that they will overcome any adversity and present a landscape we have never seen before. I am retiring from the national team but will continue to support Japan as a fan. The moment when the Japanese national team wins the World Cup will definitely come. Let’s believe in that and cheer together.” Endo concluded with a rallying call for unity and determination ahead of the tournament.
Endo’s contributions to the national team have been significant; since his debut in 2015, he has earned 73 caps and scored four goals. He leaves the international scene following a notable tenure, having captained the squad during the last World Cup in Qatar.
The loss of Endo marks the second captaincy farewell for Japan in just over a week. Prior to Endo’s announcement, the friendly match against Iceland served as a farewell for LA Galaxy stalwart Maya Yoshida, who, while still eligible, has had limited involvement with the national team since the last World Cup. Looking ahead, Ajax center-back Akira Itakura is a leading candidate to helm the team moving forward, alongside attackers Takefusa Kubo and Ritsu Doan, who have also worn the armband in recent matches.
After facing the Netherlands in their opener, Japan is scheduled to take on Tunisia six days later, concluding their Group F campaign against Sweden on June 25.
