Japan's Wataru Endo Steps Down from World Cup and International Play

In a significant development for Japanese football, captain Wataru Endo has officially withdrawn from the country's World Cup roster due to a foot injury, as confirmed by the Japan Football Association on Thursday. The Liverpool midfielder also announced his unexpected retirement from international competition.

The 33-year-old Endo shared the news on his X account, expressing his decision just three days before Japan's opening match in Group F against the Netherlands. The team has been preparing in Nashville, Tennessee, ahead of the tournament.

Endo stated, “Since getting injured and up till this point, I’ve done everything I could and I have no regret.” He had previously undergone surgery on his left foot in February and made his return during a warmup match against Iceland on May 31, although he left the game at halftime.

As Endo steps down, national team director Masakuni Yamamoto announced that Ajax defender Ko Itakura will take over as captain. Additionally, Borussia Monchengladbach forward Shuto Machino has been called up to fill the gap left by Endo.

This marks a pivotal moment for Japan as they aim for success in the World Cup, with new leadership and strategies in play.