Who are the players to watch in Japan's 2026 World Cup squad?
Japan have some big names who could shine at this summer's World Cup.
Japan might not be the first team most fans think of when looking ahead and following World Cup news this summer, but there are some underrated talents in there who could be ready to make a surprise impact at this tournament.
It’s easy to forget, but Japan actually beat both Spain and Germany as they won their group in 2022. They were then very close to knocking out 2018 finalists Croatia, only to be beaten on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Four years on, they’ve arguably only improved.
While it’s hard to predict anything in football, and major international tournaments like this often cause a surprise or two as new players make names for themselves, this is a Japan squad that already has a lot of experience at big clubs and the most competitive leagues in Europe.
Read on for our pick of Japan’s stars to watch at this summer’s World Cup.
Wataru Endo
Japan’s captain, and a familiar name for Premier League fans following three seasons at Liverpool, Wataru Endo is hugely experienced and will look to lead his side with some typical strong midfield displays this summer.
Kaoru Mitoma
Although betting sites in Japan are tightly regulated, there’ll surely be punters feeling a bit more optimistic about Japan’s hopes if Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma has a good tournament. The 28-year-old has dazzled Seagulls fans with his pace, skill, and eye for the occasional spectacular solo goal, and he’ll make sense as someone who could provide that moment of magic to decide close games in North America this summer.
Daichi Kamada
The Crystal Palace midfielder is another key player for this Japan team, so it will be interesting to see what kind of impact he can have at this level. Of course, Daichi Kamada tasted FA Cup success with Palace last season, so he knows what it takes to spring a surprise and win big games.
Zion Suzuki
A hugely talented young goalkeeper, Zion Suzuki has shone in Serie A with Parma and was previously even linked as a transfer target for Manchester United. If the 23-year-old has a strong World Cup he’ll surely be back on the radar of big clubs again in this summer’s transfer window.
Hiroki Ito
Not a regular at Bayern Munich, but still a solid player who’ll be one of the first names on the team sheet for his country this summer. With another Bundesliga title win this season, and a possible Champions League title to come as well, his experience will surely be invaluable to this squad.