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WILL KAORU MITOMA PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Kaoru Mitoma has earned his place among the most electrifying Asian players in football today. With hip-shaking dribbling and lethal attacking vision, this Japanese star has made his mark in the Premier League and with his national team. But now the question is clear: will Mitoma be at the 2026 World Cup? In this article, we give you the most comprehensive answer, analyzing his physical condition, current performance, statistics, and what's being said in Japan. All in a straightforward style, full of facts and interesting tidbits for true fans.

Mitoma and his explosion in Europe


Kaoru Mitoma, born on May 20, 1997, in Kanagawa, Japan, is one of those players who seem straight out of an anime: speed, technique, and a cool head. At 28, he has won over Brighton & Hove Albion fans in the Premier League thanks to his dazzling plays down the left wing. Mitoma is not just about dribbling; he's about tactical intelligence and the ability to assist and score at key moments.


In the 2023-2024 season, he racked up 7 goals and 8 assists in 33 official matches, with a 59% dribble success rate—an incredible feat in a league as physical as the English Premier League. His style is reminiscent of players like Heung-min Son, but with a more electric touch. Furthermore, he has been praised by coaches like Roberto De Zerbi and rivals who have experienced his talent.


Unique Background and Facts


  • Before turning professional, he turned down contracts to finish his university degree in Japan.

  • His graduation thesis was on dribbling in football: a scientific analysis of the dribble.

  • He speaks fluent Japanese and English, and is learning Spanish out of personal interest.

  • A fan of the anime “Naruto” and traditional sushi from his region.

  • He shares personalized training sessions on social media for young Japanese talents.

His current situation with the Japanese national team


Mitoma made his official debut with the Japanese national team in 2021, and since then he has been a regular in the Samurai Blue squads. In the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, he has already participated in several matches, showing great form and establishing himself as a starter on the left wing.


As of October 2025, he has played 41 international matches, with 10 goals and 12 assists. His connection with players like Takefusa Kubo, Wataru Endo, and Junya Ito gives the team dynamism and creates constant danger in the final third of the pitch.


Factors that solidify his place as a regular


  • Consistent performance in the Premier League

  • Versatility: can play as a winger, midfielder, or attacking midfielder

  • Excellent physical condition, with a low injury history

  • Total commitment to the national team and good leadership

  • High-level attacking contribution and tactical awareness


The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

Can he arrive in his best form?


Everything points to Kaoru Mitoma making it to the 2026 World Cup, and not only that: he could arrive at the peak of his career. At 29 years old by then, he would be in his footballing prime, with European experience and in peak physical condition. The big question is his future at Brighton, as several big clubs have their eyes on him.


It has been rumored that clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Atlético de Madrid, and Napoli are interested in signing him for the 2025-2026 season. A move to one of these teams could give him even more competitive experience before the World Cup.


Key aspects for his preparation


  • Avoid muscle injuries, his only recent Achilles' heel

  • Have continuity at the club, ideally as a regular starter

  • Accumulate minutes with the national team in friendlies and qualifiers

  • Maintain his mental focus and personalized training

  • Work on finishing to increase his goal tally


Mitoma has shown he has a level head. He trains with sports psychologists, analyzes his matches on video, and is always among the first to arrive and last to leave training sessions. In the words of his former coach at Kawasaki Frontale: “He’s obsessed with the game. He always wants to improve.” If everything continues as it has been, Kaoru Mitoma won't just be at the 2026 World Championship… he could be one of the tournament's breakout stars. Japan needs him, and he seems ready for that big leap in quality.

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