Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Japan's Endo out of World Cup squad, announces retirement from international football

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 9:49 PM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Japan's Endo out of World Cup squad, announces retirement from international football

Summary

Wataru Endo will not participate in the World Cup after suffering a foot injury, as announced by Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu. Endo revealed his decision to retire from international football on Thursday, following the coach's decision to exclude him from the squad. Moriyasu expressed regret over the situation, emphasizing its impact on Endo and his family, stating that Endo was 'hurt' by the news. Despite the setback, Moriyasu has expressed confidence in the remaining squad capabilities for the tournament. Japan's first match is scheduled against the Netherlands in Dallas this Sunday.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Wataru Endo excluded from Japan's World Cup squad due to injury.
•Endo announces retirement from international football after 73 caps.
•Japan's first match is against the Netherlands in Dallas on Sunday.
•Coach Hajime Moriyasu expressed regret over the decision affecting Endo.
•Japan, backed as strong contenders, has impressed in pre-tournament matches.

Latest Updates

9:49 PMYahoo Sports — Japan coach sorry for 'hurt' after ending Endo's World Cup dream

What they're saying

"
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu on Saturday described Wataru Endo as "hurt" and apologised after torpedoing the captain's World Cup dreams on the eve of the tournament.Moriyasu, who has said his goal is to take Japan to World Cup glory in North America, said it had been his call that the 33-year-old should not be involved following a foot injury.
— Yahoo Sports

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