[Breaking] Wataru Endo Announces International Retirement Just Before World Cup — New Captain Is Ko Itakura, Shuto Machino Called Up as Replacement

Just before the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America, a shockwave hit the Japan national team. Captain MF Endo Wataru (33 = Liverpool) left the camp citing a left foot injury and announced his retirement from the national team on X (formerly Twitter). The captain, who had earned 73 caps, stepped away without setting foot on the stage he had long dreamed of.

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local_fire_department Background to the Departure — Recovery After February Surgery Came Too Late

Endo underwent surgery on his left foot in February of this year. On May 31, he returned to the pitch for the first time in approximately three and a half months in an international friendly against Iceland, but came off substituted after only the first half, complaining of discomfort. His condition failed to improve thereafter, and it was decided that he would not accompany the squad to the World Cup finals.

The JFA made an official announcement on June 11 (June 12, Japan time). Technical Director Yamamoto was seen with tears in his eyes as he explained the situation, hinting at the magnitude of the impact on the team.

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sports_soccer Statement from Endo Himself

Immediately after the announcement of his departure from camp, Endo wrote the following on X (formerly Twitter):

"I have decided to retire from the national team following this current activity. From here on, I will be cheering for the Japan national team as one of its fans."

He also released the following comment to the media via the JFA:

"I am sorry that I was unable to speak with members of the media directly. I hope everyone will deliver the best possible results."

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star National Team Career Record — 73 Caps, 4 Goals

Endo made his debut for the national team in 2015. He was appointed captain following the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and had long supported the team as a defensive midfielder. His national team record stands at 73 caps and 4 goals. He was also one of the key figures behind the "Joy of Doha," which included victories over Germany and Spain at the Qatar World Cup.

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arrow_forward Successor — New Captain Itakura Ko, Additional Call-Up Machino Shuto

• New captain: Itakura Ko (29 = Ajax)
• Additional call-up: Machino Shuto (26 = Borussia MG)

CB Itakura Ko (29 = Ajax) has been appointed as the new captain to fill the void left by Endo. FW Machino Shuto (26 = Borussia MG) was selected as the replacement call-up, adding another option to the attacking line.

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:information_source: Looking Ahead to the World Cup Finals

With midfielders including Tanaka Ao still in the squad, the team's strength is maintained. Let's follow the journey of the Japan national team together as they aim for the quarterfinals or beyond under new captain Itakura Ko.

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