Wataru Endo withdraws from Japan World Cup squad and retires

Japan captain Wataru Endo has been forced to withdraw from the 2026 World Cup squad due to a persistent injury, bringing a premature end to his international career. The Liverpool midfielder confirmed he is stepping away from the national team entirely after failing to recover in time for the tournament in North America.

Endo suffered a serious foot injury during a Premier League fixture against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light in February, a blow that ended his domestic campaign as he underwent intensive rehabilitation. He was named in the initial Japan squad and even returned to the Liverpool matchday squad as an unused substitute in the 1-1 draw with Brentford, but after joining up with his national teammates in Nashville it became clear he was not fit enough to compete.

Coupling the withdrawal with his retirement from international football, Endo said: "As announced, I will be stepping away from the World Cup squad.

Japan, Nashville

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