Kaoru Mitoma Left Out of Japan's World Cup Squad Due to Injury

Kaoru Mitoma won't be dazzling fans at the World Cup this summer. The Brighton winger has been left out of Japan's squad due to a hamstring injury sustained during a recent match against Wolves.

Mitoma went down in visible pain while chasing a ball down the left flank, just an hour into the game. His immediate reaction suggested the injury was serious, and he required extensive treatment before being replaced by Joel Veltman.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler confirmed in a press conference that Mitoma would not play again this season. While he remained tight-lipped about the implications for Mitoma and Japan, the Samurai Blue announced their 26-man squad less than 24 hours later, and Mitoma's name was notably absent.

This omission underscores the severity of his injury. Mitoma has faced tough luck in the lead-up to international tournaments before. He dealt with a thigh injury before the 2021 Olympics and an ankle issue just days before Japan's squad was named for the 2024 Asian Cup. Despite those setbacks, Japan included him in both tournaments, hoping for a quick recovery.

However, this time feels different. The Albion medical team has ruled him out for six weeks, making it unlikely he’ll be fit for the World Cup, which kicks off on June 28. Japan's head coach Hajime Moriyasu confirmed the medical team's assessment, stating that it would be difficult for Mitoma to regain fitness in time for the tournament.

Missing Mitoma is a significant blow for Japan. His pace and creativity could have made a difference on the pitch. As the Samurai Blue head to North America, they will have to find a way to adapt without one of their most dynamic players.