Shock for Japan as captain Wataru Endo withdraws from World Cup squad and retires from international football after injury blow

Japan captain Wataru Endo has withdrawn from the 2026 FIFA World Cup and retired from international football after failing to recover from a persistent foot injury. The Liverpool midfielder ends an 11-year international career with 73 appearances, having captained Japan in recent years. His absence leaves a major leadership void as Japan begin their World Cup campaign without one of their most influential figures.