Post by : Shakul
Wataru Endo, the captain of Japan, is in a race against time to recover from a foot injury before the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against the Netherlands. His injury has significantly restricted his training, raising concerns about his readiness for the vital Group F match.
The Liverpool midfielder hasn’t engaged in full training sessions during Japan's pre-tournament activities in Mexico. Nevertheless, upon the team’s arrival at their World Cup location in Nashville, Endo managed to take part in light running and passing exercises with his teammates, providing a glimmer of hope for the squad.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his fitness, head coach Hajime Moriyasu remains hopeful. Medical evaluations have yet to exclude Endo from participation, and the team is rigorously monitoring his recovery as the opening match in Dallas approaches.
Endo's foot injury, sustained earlier while playing for Liverpool against Sunderland in February, had already curtailed his club season. Although he came back in a friendly against Iceland, he felt discomfort and was substituted by halftime, signaling that his recovery is still in progress.
Moriyasu is weighing the option of squad replacements should Endo be unable to play. He emphasized the need for cautious evaluation, particularly as other squad members are also returning from injuries and require assessment before the tournament kicks off.
With high hopes, Japan enters the World Cup, facing a tough Group F that features the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia. The potential absence of Endo, who brings leadership, defensive strength, and extensive international experience, would be a major blow to the Samurai Blue.
The team has already faced injury setbacks, such as Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma, who was ruled out due to a hamstring injury, and Monaco’s Takumi Minamino, who missed selection for a long-standing knee injury. As preparations continue, fans are hoping for Endo’s timely return to guide the team during their World Cup opener.
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