The 2026 FIFA World Cup is now underway across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Nations from around the globe have arrived with hopes of making history on football’s biggest stage.
Japan are among the teams hoping to enjoy a memorable tournament after years of steady progress on the international scene.
However, the Samurai Blues have suffered a huge blow just days before their opening fixture.
Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo has announced his retirement from international football ahead of Japan’s first World Cup match against the Netherlands.
The decision comes after a difficult few months for the 33-year-old. Endo suffered an ankle injury during a Premier League match against Sunderland in February.
The injury required surgery and kept him out for a lengthy period. He only returned to the Liverpool squad for the final game of the season against Brentford.
Many supporters still hoped he would feature at the World Cup. Endo even played part of Japan’s friendly against Iceland on May 31.
However, he came off after feeling discomfort. At the time, Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu remained hopeful. Instead, Endo has now confirmed his international retirement.
In a message on social media, he explained that he would step away from the World Cup squad and end his international career.
Endo leaves the national team after making 73 appearances and scoring four goals. He made his international debut in 2015.
The midfielder also served as Japan captain following the World Cup in Qatar. Japan will replace Endo with Borussia Monchengladbach forward Shuto Machino.
The squad also heads into the tournament without Kaoru Mitoma and Takumi Minamino due to injury.
Japan begin their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands in Arlington. They will then face Tunisia before taking on Sweden in their final Group F match.
発表にあった通りW杯メンバーから離脱する事になりました。
怪我をしてからここまで、自分にできることは全てやってきたので何も後悔はありません。…— 遠藤 航 (Wataru Endo) (@wataru0209) June 11, 2026
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