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Wataru Endo announces World Cup withdrawal due to ankle injury

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 6:35 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Wataru Endo announces World Cup withdrawal due to ankle injury

Summary

Wataru Endo has confirmed he will withdraw from the World Cup due to an ankle injury that has impeded his recovery. The Liverpool midfielder, set to captain Japan, made a comeback earlier this month in a friendly match against Iceland. Despite being included in the squad, Endo expressed frustration and pride in his role as captain but stated he will now retire from international football. His absence will be felt as Japan prepares for their upcoming matches in the tournament against the Netherlands and Sweden.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Endo suffered a ligament injury in February
•He returned for a friendly against Iceland in May
•He withdrew from the World Cup squad this month
•Endo announces his retirement from international football

Latest Updates

6:35 AMYahoo Sports — Wataru Endo posts defiant social media statement after injury ruins his World Cup dream

What they're saying

"
Wataru Endo has shared his ‘frustration’ at seeing his dream of captaining his country at the World Cup go up in smoke due to injury.The Liverpool midfielder’s club season was abruptly cut short...
— Yahoo Sports

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