New Japan captain Ko Itakura has vowed to do everything in his power to unite the team following the departure of his predecessor Wataru Endo, a highly influential figure in the dressing room. The incident occurred just days before Japan's World Cup opener against the Netherlands on Sunday.
According to media reports, Wataru Endo left the national team for personal reasons, leaving a significant leadership void. Itakura, who was appointed captain shortly after, pledged to take on the responsibility seriously. “I will do everything to connect the players and work toward our common goal,” Itakura said at a press conference.
The match against the Netherlands is seen as Japan's first major test in this World Cup. The absence of Endo, one of the most experienced players on the squad, is expected to affect both tactics and team morale. However, Itakura insisted his teammates are ready and trust in each other's abilities.
The Japan Football Association (JFA) confirmed the change in captaincy and called on fans to support the new skipper. As of now, no official word has been given on a replacement player for Endo, but internal sources indicate the squad will not call up anyone new and will focus on the current roster.
