Japan’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a significant setback just days before their opening match after captain Wataru Endo was ruled out of the tournament because of injury.
The Liverpool midfielder had remained with the squad throughout part of its pre-tournament training camp despite ongoing concerns over his fitness. However, following a comprehensive medical assessment, Japan’s coaching staff concluded that Endo would be unable to recover in time to contribute during the competition.
The decision forced Japan to replace one of its most experienced players before the start of the tournament, leaving coach Hajime Moriyasu without his captain for the campaign in North America.
Endo underwent surgery on his left foot in February and only returned to competitive action on May 31. His comeback included an appearance against Iceland in the Kirin Cup, providing optimism that he could recover in time for the World Cup.
Although questions remained over his physical condition, Moriyasu decided to include the veteran midfielder in Japan’s World Cup squad, hoping he would regain full fitness before the opening fixture.
Those hopes ultimately faded after further evaluations by the team’s medical staff determined that Endo would not be able to compete safely for the remainder of the tournament.
Japan Football Association Technical Director Masakuni Yamamoto confirmed the development during a closed training session on Thursday, saying the captain had already departed the team’s World Cup camp to continue his rehabilitation.
“Today, Wataru has left the team,” Yamamoto said.
“After receiving the medical report, coach Hajime Moriyasu made the final decision.”
“He continued training until the end, and I believe he is the one who is most disappointed.”
Yamamoto added that Endo had expressed his regret at being unable to help the Samurai Blue while also sending a message of encouragement to his teammates as they prepare for the tournament.
“I am also deeply saddened by this,” Yamamoto quoted Endo as saying.
“I sincerely regret that I cannot speak directly to the media. I hope everyone achieves the best possible results.”
The loss of Endo represents a major challenge for Japan as the team prepares to begin its World Cup campaign. Beyond serving as captain, the 33-year-old has been a key figure in midfield, providing leadership, defensive stability and experience gained from competing at the highest level of European football.
Moriyasu is now expected to rely on the depth of his squad to compensate for Endo’s absence, with Japan facing the difficult task of maintaining its tactical balance without one of its most influential players.
The Samurai Blue entered the tournament with ambitions of producing their strongest World Cup performance yet, but the late withdrawal of their captain adds another obstacle before a ball has even been kicked. Whether Japan can overcome the loss of its on-field leader may become one of the defining storylines of its 2026 World Cup campaign.
