Wataru Endo, the esteemed captain of Japan's national football squad, will not participate in the forthcoming World Cup. The midfielder, who plays for Liverpool, has been forced to withdraw due to a persistent foot injury and has simultaneously declared his departure from international competition. This announcement comes just days before Japan's inaugural match against the Netherlands. His absence is a significant blow to the team's aspirations, with Shuto Machino of Borussia Monchengladbach stepping in as his replacement. Endo conveyed his disappointment but expressed unwavering confidence in his team's potential to excel in Group F, which also includes formidable opponents such as Tunisia and Sweden.
Endo's journey to this difficult decision began in February when he sustained a season-ending foot injury while playing for Liverpool against Sunderland. Despite his efforts, the injury continued to trouble him. He made a brief return to the pitch for Japan in a friendly match against Iceland on May 31, but discomfort forced his early exit at halftime. This lingering issue prevented him from participating in full training sessions during the team's pre-World Cup camp in Mexico. Even after joining the squad at their World Cup base in Nashville, he was unable to achieve the necessary fitness levels in time for the tournament kick-off.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, the 33-year-old midfielder reflected on his situation, stating that he had "done everything in my power" to recover and therefore held "no regrets" about his efforts. He openly admitted his frustration at being unable to compete in this World Cup but emphasized a greater sense of pride in his leadership role since the Qatar World Cup. Endo highlighted the team's evolution under his captaincy, remarking that it now feels natural for them to target a World Cup victory. He called upon the collective strength of Japan to support the team, believing that their shared conviction could pave the way for success in the North American tournament. He concluded his statement by declaring his retirement from the national team, transitioning into a role as a devoted fan.
Endo's career with the national team began in 2015, culminating in 73 caps and four goals. He was an integral part of Japan's squads in both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, playing a crucial role in their memorable victories over Germany and Spain in Qatar. With his departure, defender Ko Itakura will assume the captaincy for Japan in the upcoming tournament. Itakura acknowledged the profound disappointment Endo must be feeling, recognizing his impactful leadership. He expressed his commitment to embracing this new role with a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering determination, signaling a new chapter for the Japanese national team as they navigate the challenges of the World Cup without their seasoned captain.
The Japanese squad has been particularly affected by injuries leading up to this World Cup. In addition to Endo's withdrawal, Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma was sidelined after suffering a hamstring injury shortly before the squad announcement. Furthermore, Monaco's Takumi Minamino also missed out on selection due to an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his left knee back in December. These injuries collectively underscore the significant obstacles the team faces, yet they remain determined to compete at the highest level.
