Japan’s hopes for a historic World Cup run took a blow after winger Kaoru Mitoma missed selection for the FIFA World Cup 2026 squad because of a hamstring injury.
Coach Hajime Moriyasu announced the decision in Tokyo, confirming that the Brighton star could not recover in time for the tournament. Mitoma sustained the injury during Brighton’s 3‑0 win over Wolves in the Premier League last weekend.
The 28‑year‑old, one of Japan’s most influential players, scored the winner against England in a friendly at Wembley in March and played a key role in Japan’s shock victories over Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup. His absence leaves a major gap in Japan’s attacking lineup.
Monaco forward Takumi Minamino also missed out after tearing his ACL in December. Japan will face the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia in Group F and begin their campaign against the Dutch in Arlington, Texas, on June 14.
Ajax defender Takehiro Tomiyasu returns to the squad after injury, while Liverpool’s Wataru Endo, Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada, and Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo headline the 26‑man team.
