Tomiyasu withdraws from Japan squad, World Cup chances take another hit

Takehiro Tomiyasu has suffered another untimely blow, withdrawing from Japan’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Scotland and England due to injury. The 27‑year‑old had only just earned his first call‑up in nearly two years, but this setback means he will not feature before coach Hajime Moriyasu selects his World Cup squad.

Tomiyasu started for Ajax in Sunday’s clash with Feyenoord but signalled discomfort after going to ground and was replaced in the 73rd minute. He later wrote on Instagram that the setback was “part of a process,” urging patience. Japan face Scotland in Glasgow on Saturday before meeting England at Wembley.

The defender’s World Cup hopes remain uncertain. Since leaving Arsenal last July to focus on rehabilitation, he signed for Ajax in December and returned to action in January, though he has yet to complete a full match. With 42 caps and experience from Qatar 2022, his absence would be a significant loss for Japan’s Group F campaign.