When Kaoru Mitoma, winger of Brighton & Hove Albion, was left out of the squad announced by Hajime Moriyasu, manager of the Japan national team, the news sent ripples through the country's football community. The exclusion, confirmed by the Japan Football Association on October 3, 2025, stems from a lingering ankle injury that kept the 28‑year‑old out of his club’s final pre‑break match. Japan will face Paraguay at Panasonic Stadium Suita on October 10 and Brazil at Tokyo Stadium four days later as part of the October 2025 international friendliesJapan.
Background: Mitoma’s Rise and Recent Injuries
Mitoma burst onto the world stage during the 2022 World Cup, becoming one of Asia’s most valuable exports with a market value pegged at €30 million by the start of 2025. Since joining Brighton in July 2023, he has logged 18 Premier League appearances this season, tallying three goals and five assists before his ankle trouble surfaced in early September.
According to the club’s medical team, the injury – a Grade 2 lateral ankle sprain – occurred during a training drill against a full‑back. "We advised him to avoid any international travel until we see a clear return to full training," a Brighton spokesperson said, adding that premature competition could risk chronic instability.
His previous international absences echo this pattern; Mitoma missed the March 2024 Asian Cup qualifiers and the June 2024 Copa América friendlies for similar reasons, raising questions about his long‑term durability.
October Friendlies: Fixtures and Stakes
The matches against Paraguay and Brazil are not just warm‑ups; they serve as the final testing ground before the Asian Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Japan sits third in their group and needs a points boost to secure direct qualification.
Paraguay, ranked 48th by FIFA, will be playing their first match in Japan since the 2019 Confederations Cup, while Brazil, a perennial powerhouse, arrives fresh from the Copa América final. Both opponents present distinct tactical challenges – Paraguay’s compact defense versus Brazil’s high‑pressing attack.
The Japan Football Association has scheduled a closed‑door training camp in Osaka from October 5‑9, aiming to fine‑tune set pieces and defensive cohesion ahead of the fixtures.
Selection Decisions: Who Made the Squad
Moriyasu’s 25‑man list leans heavily on Europe‑based talent. Takefusa Kubo, the Real Sociedad forward, earned a spot despite nursing a left‑ankle knock during the September 7 friendly against Mexico in Oakland. "We decided that Kubo could convene this time," Moriyasu told reporters, highlighting the coaching staff’s confidence in his quick recovery.
Other notable inclusions are Endo Wataru (Liverpool), Junya Ito (RC Strasbourg), and Ko Itakura (Ajax). The only J‑League representatives are centre‑back Yuto Nagatomo and goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima, underscoring the federation’s Europe‑first policy.
Missing from the list, besides Mitoma, are midfielder Ritsu Doan (VfL Bochum) – who was sidelined with a minor hamstring strain – and striker Takumi Minamino (Monaco), who is nursing a calf issue.
Reactions from Players, Coaches, and Fans
Brighton’s head coach Roberto De Zerbi expressed disappointment but praised the player’s professionalism. "Kaoru has been a key part of our attacking plan, but health comes first. We’ll support him fully," De Zerbi said in a post‑match interview.
Teammates on the Japan squad, notably midfielder Gaku Shibasaki, urged patience: "Kaoru’s energy and creativity are missed, but we have to adapt. The team is ready to give our best regardless of who is on the pitch."
Fans took to social media with mixed feelings. While many praised Moriyasu for prioritising player welfare, others questioned the inconsistency of selecting Kubo over Mitoma. A poll conducted by Sports Nippon on October 4 showed 57% of respondents believed the decision was justified, compared with 38% who felt Mitoma should have been included.
What This Means for Japan’s Upcoming Campaign
Analysts argue that Mitoma’s absence could blunt Japan’s wing play, a component that helped the side secure a 2‑1 win over Mexico in September. Without his cutting runs, Moriyasu may rely more on full‑backs like Takehiro Tomiyasu to provide width.
On the flip side, the decision allows younger talent – such as 19‑year‑old forward Ryunosuke Takayama – to gain valuable experience against top‑tier opposition.
Looking ahead, the JFA’s medical committee will reassess Mitoma’s condition after the friendlies. If his ankle recovers by late November, he could be back for the crucial World Cup qualifying matches in March 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Kaoru Mitoma missed the October 2025 Japan friendlies due to a lingering ankle injury.
- Hajime Moriyasu prioritized player health while still fielding a Europe‑heavy squad.
- Takefusa Kubo was selected despite a minor ankle issue, sparking debate among supporters.
- Japan faces Paraguay (Oct 10) and Brazil (Oct 14) as preparatory tests before World Cup qualifying.
- The decision may affect Japan’s tactical flexibility but opens doors for emerging players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Kaoru Mitoma excluded from the October friendlies?
Mitoma suffered a Grade 2 lateral ankle sprain in early September. Brighton’s medical team advised against international travel, and the Japan Football Association followed that recommendation to avoid aggravating the injury.
Who will fill Mitoma’s role on the wing for Japan?
Coach Hajime Moriyasu is likely to rely on full‑backs such as Takehiro Tomiyasu and the pace of winger Takefusa Kubo, who, despite a minor ankle knock, was selected for the squad.
How important are the matches against Paraguay and Brazil for Japan?
Both fixtures serve as final warm‑ups before the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. A positive result against Paraguay and a solid performance versus Brazil could boost morale and solidify tactical plans.
What does the selection of Kubo despite his injury say about Moriyasu’s approach?
Moriyasu emphasized a case‑by‑case evaluation. He stated that Kubo’s ankle issue was minor and that the player felt fit to train, indicating a flexible attitude toward player fitness.
When can fans expect an update on Mitoma’s recovery?
The Japan Football Association’s medical committee plans to review Mitoma’s condition after the October friendlies, with a public update likely in late November ahead of the March 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Oh great, another excuse to keep the star off the pitch.