Japanese national team key asset Takefusa Kubo expressed regret toward Kaoru Mitoma, who was left off the World Cup roster due to injury.
Real Sociedad drew 1-1 with Girona on the road in the 36th round of the 2025-2026 LaLiga season at Estadi Montilivi in Girona, Spain, on the 15th (Korea time).
Kubo started but had a difficult match. The team was on the defensive for most of the game, so there were few opportunities to possess the ball. He was eventually substituted in the 12th minute of the second half. Still, with the final Japan roster announcement imminent, it was positive that he finished the match without a serious injury.
After the match, Kubo spoke about Mitoma's injury withdrawal from the Japan national team.
The Japan Football Association held a news conference in Tokyo on the 15th and revealed the final roster for the North American World Cup. Coach Hajime Moriyasu called them the "best 26 to win in the world."
The most shocking part was Mitoma's exclusion. Mitoma, who plays for Brighton & Hove Albion, injured the back of his left thigh in the match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on the 9th. In Japan, it is being reported that a return during the tournament is considered unlikely.
Mitoma, who led attacks from the flank with quick dribbles and powerful kicks and was also nicknamed "Japan's Son Heung-min," played a key attacking role for Japan at the 2022 Qatar World Cup. With him out this time due to injury, concerns about the gap he leaves have grown.
Kubo said, "Mitoma's injury is truly unfortunate. I contacted him directly. Naturally, it must be tough. He's a really important player."
He added, "But that creates opportunities for other players," and said, "I hope everyone comes together as one and that the players selected put on a good tournament, for Mitoma's sake as well."
Japan has set a goal of winning the North American World Cup for the first time in history. Kubo also reaffirmed his determination. He did not hide his intention to challenge the new vista of the "world's top" that the Japan national team dreams of.
[OSEN]