Japan’s squad for the 2026 World Cup will be announced on May 15, and one expert has offered a bold prediction for the 26-man roster. The key takeaway: midfielder Wataru Endo should secure his place if he shows signs of returning to top form by the tournament. Additionally, the analyst sees a strong potential partnership between Takefusa Kubo and Junya Ito, with Ito deployed as a left shadow striker to complement Kubo’s creativity.
The expert emphasizes that Endo’s experience and leadership remain vital, but his recent dip in form raises questions. If he can regain sharpness in time for the World Cup, his inclusion is almost certain. Meanwhile, the combination of Kubo and Ito could give Japan a dynamic attacking edge, allowing Ito to drift inside from the left while Kubo orchestrates from the right or central areas. This tactical flexibility, the expert argues, could be a key weapon for manager Hajime Moriyasu.
Other notable points include the fierce competition in midfield and defense, with players like Hidemasa Morita and Takehiro Tomiyasu facing uncertain spots. The analyst also raises the possibility of a surprise selection, such as a young forward or a penalty specialist goalkeeper, to add depth. However, the core of the prediction centers on Endo’s recovery and the Kubo-Ito axis being pivotal to Japan’s campaign.
