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Rui Hachimura has voiced his intent to return to Japan's national team after resolving disagreements with the Clippers. The 28-year-old forward, a key figure from Tokyo 2020, could boost Japan's frontcourt in upcoming international competitions.
Rui Hachimura has expressed his desire to return to the Japanese national basketball team after a period of absence caused by disagreements with team management following the Paris 2024 Olympics. The 27-year-old NBA star, who plays for the Los Angeles Clippers, says he is ready to open a new chapter with the national team.
Former captain Maya Yoshida will join the Japan national team for the World Cup as a 'support player', starting from the pre-tournament training camp in Mexico. The Japan Football Association announced the move on May 28, citing Yoshida's vast experience. He will not be on the official roster but will provide mentorship and tactical support.
Japan's national football team focused on acclimating to high temperatures during Wednesday's training session at their pre-World Cup camp in Monterrey, Mexico. The drills aim to boost endurance for matches in similarly hot conditions.
Japan’s national football team has begun its training camp for the 2026 World Cup, marking their eighth straight appearance. The camp, which started Monday, includes players recently returned from European clubs and will be followed by travel to the tournament co-hosts. Japan aims to reach the quarterfinals after falling in the Round of 16 on penalties in 2022.
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.
