Wataru Endo

Endo (undisclosed) is in a race to be fit for Japan's World Cup opener against the Netherlands on Sunday, with coach Hajime Moriyasu expressing hope rather than certainty over his captain's availability, per Japanese Football. "According to the medical reports, there is nothing to say that he can't play. So we just believe, pray and wait."

Analysis: Endo had been training separately from the rest of the squad throughout Japan's pre-tournament camp in Mexico, but has since rejoined his teammates for running and passing drills following the move to their World Cup base in Nashville. The Liverpool midfielder used the squad's rest day to train alone, underlining his determination to be ready for the opener against the Netherlands in Dallas. Manager Hajime Moriyasu confirmed he remains in contention despite the foot injury, though the lack of full training sessions in the buildup raises legitimate questions about his match sharpness heading into one of the most important fixtures of Japan's tournament. Japan also face Sweden and Tunisia in Group F, making Endo's availability over the course of the competition a key factor in their chances of progressing.

Jun 1, 2026

Plays 45 minutes for Japan

Endo played 45 minutes in Japan's 1-0 victory in Sunday's friendly against Iceland, marking his first competitive appearance since sustaining a foot injury during Liverpool's win at Sunderland in early February, according to the club.

Analysis: Endo's return after more than three months on the sidelines is a significant boost for Japan heading into the World Cup, with the Liverpool midfielder completing the full first half in Tokyo without any apparent setbacks. Japan's World Cup opener comes on June 14 against the Netherlands in Arlington, Texas, where Endo will face three of his Liverpool teammates in Cody Gakpo, Ryan Gravenberch and Virgil van Dijk, giving him added motivation to prove his fitness over the coming days before the tournament begins.

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Wataru Endo

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