Japan captain Wataru Endo withdraws from FIFA World Cup plans due to injury and announces retirement from international football, according to multiple reports. The 33-year-old Liverpool midfielder is ruled out of Japan’s squad shortly before the tournament, with coverage noting the announcement comes about three days before Japan’s Group F opener against the Netherlands on June 14. Several outlets attribute the decision to a foot problem that has affected his fitness and availability, including references to an earlier surgery on his left foot in February and a limited role upon his return. Endo communicates the decision publicly via social media in Japanese, stating he does not regret the efforts made while injured and that he will retire from the national team, choosing instead to support Japan as a fan.
Following his withdrawal, Japan names replacements and adjusts leadership. Reports say the Japan Football Association confirms Endo’s exit and that Borussia Mönchengladbach forward Shuto Machino is called up as a replacement. Another outlet reports Ajax defender Ko Itakura is named captain in Endo’s absence, with Japan’s coach reportedly taking responsibility for Endo going home. Endo last plays for Japan earlier in the warm-up period before the World Cup.
