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Monaco striker Takumi Minamino is expected to be named in Japan's squad for next month's World Cup, according to a source on May 11. Midfielder Hidemasa Morita has announced his departure from Sporting CP after four years at the club.
Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu named his 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup, but winger Kaoru Mitoma missed out due to injury. Veteran midfielder Takumi Minamino and goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima were also left off the list. The squad relies heavily on European-based talents like Ritsu Doan, Takefusa Kubo and Wataru Endo.
Japan forward Kaoru Mitoma is unlikely to recover from a left leg injury in time for the World Cup, a source close to the team revealed Wednesday. The injury is considered serious and requires a longer rehabilitation period than initially expected. His absence would be a major blow to Samurai Blue, forcing head coach Hajime Moriyasu to adjust tactics.
