Five Japanese players to keep an eye on for the 2026 World Cup

The Japanese national team will have some interesting players in the squad at the 2026 World Cup. Here are five names to keep an eye on.

1. **Ko Itakura** \- The 26-year-old defender from Borussia Mönchengladbach is a real fighter. Itakura is quick, strong in the duel and also has a good long pass. He played 23 games in the last Bundesliga season.

2. **Ayase Ueda** \- The 25-year-old FC Nantes striker scored 12 goals in 37 games last season. Ueda is a classic center forward who is good at finishing but also has the ability to retreat to the wings and combine there.



3. **Kodai Sano** \- The 21-year-old Vissel Kobe winger is a huge talent in Japan. Sano is fast, strong at dribbling and has a good eye for his teammates. He could cause one or two surprises at the 2026 World Cup.

4. **Koki Ogawa** \- The 23-year-old striker from Yokohama F. Marinos is considered a real goalscorer in Japan. In the last J-League season, Ogawa scored 21 goals. He is a player who always stands correctly and takes good chances.

5. **Takehiro Tomiyasu** \- The 25-year-old Arsenal defender is a player who can also be used in attack. Tomiyasu has good technique, is very fast and has a strong body. He will play an important role in the Japanese defense.