Japan captain Wataru Endo withdraws from World Cup squad, retires

Japan faces a significant setback as captain Wataru Endo withdraws from the 2026 World Cup squad due to injury, simultaneously announcing his retirement from international football. The absence of the 33-year-old midfielder, a key player for the Samurai Blue, marks a substantial loss for the team as they prepare for their Group F fixtures.

Endo's departure means Japan will compete in the tournament without their experienced leader. The team's campaign will see them face opponents including the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia in Group F. The loss of their captain is expected to test the team's depth and resilience on the global stage.

The midfielder, who plays for Liverpool, has been a cornerstone for Japan, contributing significantly to their standing as a prominent force in Asian football. His leadership and on-field presence have been vital to the team's stability and success in recent years. His withdrawal underscores the challenges teams often face with player availability due to injuries, especially in major international tournaments.