2026– date –

Kaishu Sano's value to Japan's 2026 World Cup squad is not flashy scoring but relentless midfield work: ball recoveries, distance covered, and the ability to support Japan's attacking talent from underneath.

Ao Tanaka’s likely role for Japan at the 2026 World Cup is not simply to add energy in midfield, but to stabilize games, absorb pressure, and connect Japan’s defensive and attacking phases with the control he showed at Leeds United.

Ayase Ueda has given Japan a genuine penalty-box striker ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The question is not whether he can score, but whether he can hold up play, pin center-backs and finish the few chances tournament football leaves.

Ritsu Doan’s value to Japan ahead of the 2026 World Cup goes beyond right-wing production. His first season at Eintracht Frankfurt has strengthened the tactical flexibility that makes him one of Hajime Moriyasu’s most useful options.

Koki Ogawa’s place in Japan’s 2026 World Cup squad is about more than goals at NEC Nijmegen. His hold-up play, aerial threat, and tactical fit give Hajime Moriyasu a different kind of No. 9.

Daizen Maeda enters the 2026 World Cup as more than a pressing forward for Japan. His finishing numbers at Celtic and his proven defensive work make him a genuine tactical weapon on the left or at striker.

Daichi Kamada’s importance to Japan’s 2026 World Cup squad goes well beyond goals. His real value is as the central connector who links midfield to attack, supports Japan’s pressing shape, and can decide tight matches with one clean action.

Junya Ito's role for Japan at the 2026 World Cup goes beyond right-wing pace. His biggest value is giving the team width, depth and a direct route forward when matches start to stall.

Wataru Endo’s value to Japan’s 2026 World Cup squad is not about goals. It is about control: stopping counters, settling tense stretches, and helping Japan close games without losing shape.

Junnosuke Suzuki made Japan’s 2026 World Cup squad because he offers more than depth at center-back. His ball progression at Shonan Bellmare and his expanded defensive role at FC Copenhagen gave Japan a flexible option on the left side of the back line.