The news that Japan fans feared has been confirmed: Kaoru Mitoma will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a tearful press conference held on Friday, May 15, 2026, Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu announced the 26-man squad for North America, with the Brighton & Hove Albion star being the most notable—and painful—omission. Mitoma has been sidelined by a torn hamstring suffered during Brighton’s 3–0 Premier League victory over Wolves last weekend.
1. The Injury: A Cruel Twist of Fate
Mitoma’s World Cup dream was shattered just before the hour mark on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the American Express Stadium.
The Incident: While chasing a ball down the left flank in the 58th minute, Mitoma pulled up sharply and collapsed in visible agony.
The Diagnosis: Medical assessments revealed a severe hamstring tear. Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler confirmed earlier this week that Mitoma would not play again for the club this season
The Final Verdict: Coach Moriyasu stated that while he considered "rolling the dice," the medical team determined it was impossible for Mitoma to achieve match fitness at any point during the tournament.
2. Impact on Japan: A Huge Void on the Left
Mitoma was widely considered the "irreplaceable" first choice for Japan’s attacking left flank. His absence creates a significant tactical challenge as Japan enters Group F against the Netherlands, Tunisia, and Sweden.
3. Moriyasu’s Emotional Omission
The squad announcement was one of the most emotional in Japanese football history. Coach Moriyasu was visibly moved, his eyes welling with tears as he explained the decision to leave out his star winger.
"As everyone knows, Mitoma was hurt in his most recent game and I could not pick him in the end," Moriyasu said. "That was the last decision I had to make... It’s a huge blow to us, and his injury is just sad. I just hope he can get back to being the best version of himself."