Japan's World Cup hopes have been dealt a significant blow with the news that Kaoru Mitoma has been omitted from the 26-man squad for this summer's tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Brighton winger suffered a hamstring injury during the Seagulls' 3-0 victory over Wolves last weekend, an issue that will not only rule him out of the club's final two Premier League fixtures but also the global showpiece.
The injury occurred in a match where Mitoma had been instrumental before his withdrawal. Brighton's medical staff have yet to provide a firm timeline for his return, with manager Fabian Hurzeler admitting on Thursday that the club “really have to be patient” and that “we cannot give a clear schedule.” The uncertainty surrounding the 28-year-old's recovery ultimately led to his exclusion from Hajime Moriyasu's plans.
Moriyasu named his squad on Friday, confirming the inclusion of several European-based stars. Liverpool's Wataru Endo, Crystal Palace's Daichi Kamada, Leeds United's Ao Tanaka, and Celtic's Daizen Maeda all made the cut, as did Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo and Eintracht Frankfurt's Ritsu Doan. But the absence of Mitoma, a player with nine goals in 31 international appearances, casts a shadow over the selection.
Japan have been drawn in Group F and will begin their campaign against the Netherlands on 14 June, followed by matches against Tunisia on 21 June and Sweden five days later. The expanded 48-team tournament kicks off on 11 June and represents a huge opportunity for the Samurai Blue to advance past the group stage, having reached the round of 16 in 2022. But without their most dynamic wide threat, Moriyasu may need to adjust his tactical approach.
Mitoma's dribbling ability and creativity have made him a talisman for both club and country since his international debut in 2021. His trademark direct running and close control often unsettle defences, and he has been a key figure in Brighton's rise under multiple managers. This season, he had contributed crucial goals and assists before the injury struck, and his absence will be felt deeply by a Japan side that relies on his ingenuity in the final third.
The Brighton winger's club season is effectively over, with the Seagulls set to face Leeds United and Manchester United without him. Hurzeler's comments suggest a cautious approach, prioritising long-term fitness over a rushed return. For Mitoma, the focus will now shift to rehabilitation and preparing for the next Premier League campaign, though the disappointment of missing a World Cup will undoubtedly linger.
Japan's squad still boasts considerable talent, particularly in midfield where Endo and Kamada provide experience and composure. Defenders like Takehiro Tomiyasu (Ajax) and Ko Itakura (Ajax) offer solidity, while Maeda and Kubo can pose threats on the counter. Yet the question remains whether anyone can replicate Mitoma's unique one-on-one threat, which often forces opponents to double up and creates space for others.
The decision to omit Mitoma highlights the ruthless nature of tournament selection, especially with the World Cup starting just days after the club season concludes. Moriyasu had to balance the risk of carrying an injured player against the potential reward, and ultimately opted for a fully fit squad. This pragmatic approach could serve Japan well if they can maintain cohesion, but it leaves fans wondering what might have been.
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, all eyes will be on Moriyasu's tactical setup in the group stage. The Netherlands, featuring talents like Frenkie de Jong and Cody Gakpo, present a stern opening test, while Tunisia and Sweden are no pushovers. Without Mitoma's explosiveness on the left flank, Japan may need to lean more heavily on the likes of Junya Ito and Keito Nakamura to provide width.
For Brighton, Mitoma's injury is another setback in a season that has seen them compete on multiple fronts. The club will now give him the necessary time to heal, with an eye on the 2025-26 campaign. As for Mitoma himself, he will have to channel his frustration into recovery and come back stronger, with the hope of representing his country at future international tournaments.
The 2026 World Cup marks the first time the event is co-hosted by three nations, and its expanded format promises more surprises. For Japan, even without their star winger, the squad possesses the quality to make an impact. But the narrative of what could have been will persist if they fail to find a creative spark in Mitoma's absence.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
