Kaoru Mitoma left out of Japan squad due to injury
Kaoru Mitoma has been excluded from Japan’s World Cup squad after suffering a hamstring injury. The winger’s absence is seen as a setback for Japan’s hopes of advancing past the last 16. Coach Hajime Moriyasu confirmed the decision, citing medical advice that Mitoma would not regain fitness in time for the tournament. Other notable absences and inclusions were also announced as Japan prepares for a challenging group stage.
What we know
- Kaoru Mitoma was not selected for Japan’s World Cup squad due to a hamstring injury.
- Coach Hajime Moriyasu said the medical team determined he would not recover in time.
- Monaco’s Takumi Minamino also missed out after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in late December.
- Ajax’s Takehiro Tomiyasu made the squad despite recent injury issues.
- Key players such as Daichi Kamada, Wataru Endo, and Takefusa Kubo were included in the 26-man squad.
