Wataru Endo retires from international football due to injury
Japan captain Wataru Endo has withdrawn from the 2026 World Cup squad and confirmed his retirement from international duty.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 / Author: Amir Ostovari
Wataru Endo has officially withdrawn from Japan's squad for the 2026 World Cup. The Liverpool midfielder, who has been battling a serious foot injury sustained in February, was unable to prove his fitness ahead of the tournament.
Alongside the news of his withdrawal, the 33-year-old announced his retirement from international football. A leader in the dressing room and a crucial presence in midfield, Endo stated he has no regrets after doing everything in his power to recover.
As announced, I will be stepping away from the World Cup squad. Since my injury, I've done everything I possibly could up to this point, so I have no regrets whatsoever. Of course, there's frustration at not being able to participate in this World Cup, but more than that, I'm proud of how we've grown together since the Qatar World Cup. Wataru Endo
Endo has urged fans to unite behind the national team as they prepare for the challenge in North and Central America. The Japanese coaching staff has moved quickly to replace the veteran, calling up Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Shuto Machino to the 26-man roster.
His absence is a significant tactical blow for Japan, who face a challenging group stage alongside the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia. Endo, who earned 73 caps for the Samurai Blue, was expected to provide vital leadership and tournament experience.