League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: Japan Category: Breaking News

Wataru Endo withdraws from World Cup due to recovery setback

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 6:03 PM

Last updated Jun 11, 2026

Wataru Endo withdraws from World Cup due to recovery setback

Summary

Wataru Endo will not participate in the 2026 World Cup after facing a recovery setback from a foot injury. Japan announced his withdrawal, stating that Endo was back in solo training at the national team camp in Nashville. The midfielder had undergone surgery for a broken left foot in February and had recently shown signs of recovery, including participation in a friendly against Iceland on May 31. Endo's absence is a significant blow for Japan, as he was considered a key player in their World Cup campaign. Shuto Machino will replace him in the squad.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Wataru Endo was Japan's captain and midfielder.
•He suffered a broken left foot and had surgery in February.
•Endo played half a match against Iceland on May 31.
•Japan announced his withdrawal on June 11, 2026.
•Shuto Machino will replace Endo in the squad.

Latest Updates

6:03 PMYahoo Sports — 🚨Breaking: Wataru Endo misses the World Cup
5:18 PMYahoo Sports — Breaking: Wataru Endo Withdraws from World Cup

What they're saying

"
An untimely injury has ultimately ruled him out of the big event, and Shuto Machino will replace him. With the World Cup practically just around the corner, bad luck has struck Japan, and Wataru Endo ...
— Yahoo Sports