Japan name World Cup squad: Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma out of tournament with hamstring injury
New York Times
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Kaoru Mitoma, a winger for Brighton & Hove Albion, has been ruled out of Japan's World Cup squad due to a hamstring injury. This setback occurred during a match against Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier in November. The injury significantly impacts Japan's squad for the upcoming tournament.
- Brighton & Hove Albion winger Kaoru Mitoma will miss Japan's World Cup squad.
- Mitoma suffered a hamstring injury during a match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on November 11.
- The 28-year-old's injury means he will be unavailable for selection for Japan's national team.
- This is a significant blow to Japan's World Cup aspirations, as Mitoma is a key player for the team.
- The exact severity and recovery timeline for Mitoma's hamstring injury have not been fully disclosed.
- Mitoma's absence from the World Cup squad was confirmed by the Japan Football Association.
- The Brighton winger has been a regular starter and an important contributor for both his club and country.
- His inability to participate in the tournament means a reshuffling of Japan's attacking options will be necessary.
- The World Cup is scheduled to begin shortly, making his unavailability a critical challenge for the Japanese team.
- Mitoma's club, Brighton & Hove Albion, will also feel the impact of his extended absence.
- The injury underscores the risks associated with player participation in demanding international competitions.
- Japan's coaching staff will now need to identify a suitable replacement to fill Mitoma's role.
- The player's focus will shift to rehabilitation and returning to fitness for his club.
