Kaoru Mitoma would be a big miss for Japan

Japan face an anxious wait over Kaoru Mitoma’s fitness after the winger suffered a suspected hamstring injury during Brighton’s three‑nil Premier League win over Wolves on Saturday. Mitoma pulled up while chasing a ball early in the second half, immediately clutching the back of his left thigh before limping off in the fifty‑eighth minute.

Reports said he later left the stadium on crutches, heightening concern for national team coach Hajime Moriyasu, who is set to announce his World Cup squad on Friday. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler admitted the situation “didn’t look great” but urged patience until medical scans provide clarity, adding that he remains hopeful despite initial impressions. The timing is troubling for Japan, who begin their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands in Arlington on June fourteen before facing Tunisia and Sweden in Group F. Mitoma’s availability could significantly influence Moriyasu’s attacking plans for the tournament.