Japan faces a significant setback in its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to the unexpected withdrawal of captain Wataru Endo, occurring just three days before their Group F opener against the Netherlands in Arlington.
Additionally, the 33-year-old Liverpool midfielder has announced his retirement from international football.
Endo has been dealing with a foot injury suffered while playing for Liverpool back in February, which required surgery. Although he was initially included in the Samurai Blue’s 26-player roster, the absence of injured stars like Kaoru Mitoma and Takumi Minamino was confirmed.
However, questions about his fitness arose when he could only play one half in a warm-up match against Iceland on May 31 before being substituted due to discomfort.
At that time, Japan’s coach Hajime Moriyasu stated, “According to the medical reports, there is nothing to say he can’t play. So we just believe, pray and wait.”
With Japan on the brink of what is perceived to be their toughest challenge in Group F against the Dutch, the decision has been made to drop Endo and replace him with Borussia Mönchengladbach striker Shūto Machino, a move that lacks a direct positional equivalent.
“As announced, I will be stepping away from the World Cup squad,” Endo mentioned on social media.
“Of course, there’s frustration at not being able to participate in this World Cup, but more than that, I’m proud of how we’ve grown together since the Qatar World Cup — my role as captain as we aimed to achieve our goal of ‘winning the World Cup’ has been rewarding.
“The current team is truly exceptional. I have faith they will overcome any challenges and present us with unforgettable moments.
“With this campaign, I will be retiring from the national team. From now on, I will support the Japan national team as a fan. The day the Japan national team wins the World Cup will surely arrive. Let’s believe in that and cheer them on together.
“And let’s unite Japan’s strength as one for this tournament — everyone, let’s give it everything we’ve got!”
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Endo leaves the international scene with 73 caps and four goals since making his debut for the Samurai Blue in 2015, having served as captain following the last World Cup in Qatar.
This also marks a significant transition for Japan as they bid farewell to two captains within a week.
The friendly victory over Iceland at the end of May was also a farewell for LA Galaxy veteran and Endo’s predecessor Maya Yoshida, who technically hasn’t retired from international play but had been minimally involved with the national team post-Qatar.
There is speculation that Ajax center back Kō Itakura might take over as captain, although forwards Takefusa Kubo and Ritsu Dōan have also captained the side over the past year.
After facing the Netherlands on Sunday, Japan will take on Tunisia six days later, followed by their final Group F match against Sweden on June 25.