Wataru Endo Retires from Japan's National Team, Misses 2026 World Cup
Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo announced he will miss the 2026 World Cup because of injury and has retired from Japan's national team after his 73 caps. Endo featured only 170 minutes for Liverpool this season, struggling to regain full fitness.
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu called his departure a significant loss for the squad's leadership. The midfielder's 73‑match international career left a lasting imprint on Japanese football.
His retirement opens up opportunities for emerging talents to step into the national side.
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| Language | en |
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