Major setback. Midfielder from one of England's top clubs forced to miss World Cup due to injury
Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert
Mitoma suffered an injury at the very last moment before the start of the World Cup.
Details: According to renowned and reliable journalist and insider Fabrizio Romano on his social media page X, 28-year-old Brighton and Japan national team winger Kaoru Mitoma will miss the upcoming World Cup due to injury.
- Also read: Aston Villa vs Liverpool: Prediction, facts, betting tips, line-ups and H2H – May 15, 2026
Mitoma picked up a hamstring injury in the 36th round of the English Premier League against Wolverhampton and was substituted in the 58th minute.
After a full medical examination, it became clear that Mitoma simply would not recover in time for the start of the World Cup, meaning he has lost all hope of joining the Japan squad for the tournament.
This season, Mitoma has played 27 matches for Brighton, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist.
Reminder: Japan national team changes coach after victory over England