With just 30 days left until the 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11 (June 12 Japan time), Japan’s national team is set to announce its 26-man roster on the 15th. Ahead of this national event, Nikkan Sports commentator Sergio Echigo (80) has stepped into the role of “manager” and selected his own 26 players from a unique perspective. The biggest surprise? The inclusion of Kashima Antlers forward Yuma Suzuki (30). Meanwhile, veteran defender Yuto Nagatomo (39, FC Tokyo), who aimed for his fifth consecutive World Cup appearance, was left off the list.
In Brazil, where I was born and where the population is about 213 million, soccer is the very fabric of people’s lives. That’s why it’s said there are over 100 million managers and commentators there. In Japan, too, many coaches emerge before the World Cup. This time, I decided to become a selector for the national team.
Now, let me reveal the forwards. Alongside Ayase Ueda and Koki Ogawa, I’m picking Yuma Suzuki. This name will probably make an impact, right?
But looking at the results he’s produced, he deserves a spot on the national team. He’s being called up because of his ability. In 2023, he scored 14 goals; in 2024, 15; and in 2025, 10 goals as Kashima won the J1 title. Those are real numbers. Domestically, he stands out.
Why hasn’t Hajime Moriyasu called him up? If Yuma isn’t interested in the national team, it’s the front office’s job to persuade him. He’s known for speaking his mind, but coaches like Toru Oniki at Kashima have managed him well.
He played alongside Ueda, who is now a key figure for the national team, for about four months during the 2022 season at Kashima. Their styles complement each other, which would be interesting. Yuma not only focuses on goal-scoring moves but also operates on the flanks and second line. He doesn’t slack off defensively, and his work rate is exceptional. He can do the kind of work that Takumi Minamino does, though Minamino realistically won’t be ready due to injury.
Is there not enough time to call him up now? For national team players, time isn’t an issue. Kaishu Sano adapted quickly. If you have the ability, you’ll be fine. If I were the coach, I’d woo Yuma. If that fails, my third forward choice would be Shuto Machino.
In midfield, Kaoru Mitoma’s injury is a concern, but regardless of that incident, I’m selecting Yuki Soma for the second consecutive tournament. Among domestic-based players, he’s producing goals and assists, and his defensive intensity is high. His free kicks are especially good. They brought in Shunsuke Nakamura as a coach, but it’s pointless if there’s no suitable free-kick taker. The fact that he can play on both wings and as a shadow striker is a big plus.
For the holding midfielder, I absolutely pick Wataru Endo. He was left out after the final World Cup qualifiers due to health issues, but he’s been the team’s anchor. He’s a key player for Sporting, who reached the quarterfinals of this season’s Champions League. If Japan wants to win the World Cup, they need players who can speak up clearly within the team, just like Yuma Suzuki.
In defense, if Hiroki Machida, who was sidelined with a left knee injury, recovers in time, I’d select him. If the immobile left-footed center-back returns, it would allow players like Hiroki Ito and Junya Suzuki to be used on the wings, expanding tactical options. If Machida isn’t ready, then Takehiro Tomiyasu. But he’s been plagued by injuries, so he’d be a backup.
Now, about Nagatomo, who has played in four consecutive World Cups: I’d leave him out. I respect his past performances, but recently, even when called up, he hasn’t made the bench. A player sitting in the stands can’t take the spot of someone on the bench. If they want a mood maker, that’s disrespectful to both him and his teammates.
For the rest of the squad, I’ve reasonably selected Wataru Endo, Ritsu Doan, and Takefusa Kubo. Everyone will have their opinions on this 26-man lineup. But in the end, it’s Coach Moriyasu who makes the final call. If the players don’t perform, the coach will face criticism too. I support Coach Moriyasu as he fights with that resolve.
[Illustration] World Cup Japan squad selected by Sergio Echigo
[Illustration] Key players not selected by Sergio Echigo
FC Tokyo DF Yuto Nagatomo (photo taken May 2026)
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