Japan's national team has announced its squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with notable absences due to injury. Brighton & Hove Albion winger Kaoru Mitoma has been ruled out after failing to recover from a hamstring injury in time for the tournament. Similarly, Monaco forward Takumi Minamino will miss the World Cup due to his own injury concerns.
On a positive note, former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has been included in the squad, providing a boost to Japan's defensive options. Head coach Hajime Moriyasu expressed confidence in the selected players, emphasizing the team's depth and resilience despite the setbacks.
The squad will aim to improve on Japan's Round of 16 finish in the 2022 World Cup, with hopes of advancing further in the tournament.