Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has cast doubt over Kaoru Mitoma’s availability for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the Japan winger suffered a hamstring injury that has ruled him out for the remainder of the Premier League season.
Mitoma picked up the injury during Brighton’s win over Wolverhampton Wanderers and will miss the club’s final two league matches as they continue their push for a possible European qualification spot.
As reported by BBC Sport on Thursday, Hurzeler admitted the timing of the injury is a major setback for both club and country, while stressing that the player’s recovery timeline remains unclear.
“Regarding the World Cup, I’m not sure yet. We’ll be in touch with the Japan federation.” Hurzeler said.
He added that the club is prioritising caution in Mitoma’s rehabilitation.
“We really have to be patient with this injury, we cannot give a clear schedule,” he said.
“He will miss our two games. That is sad for Kaoru. He was in good form and had a big impact on our performances.”
Japan national team coach Hajime Moriyasu is expected to announce his squad for the World Cup on Friday, leaving Mitoma’s situation uncertain as the tournament kicks off on June 11.
The 27-year-old winger has been an important figure for Japan and Brighton, with his pace and creativity playing a key role in both setups.
Japan will begin their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on June 14, followed by group matches against Tunisia and Sweden in Group F.
Brighton, meanwhile, continue their own end-of-season push in the Premier League, with Mitoma’s absence seen as a significant blow to their attacking options.
Further discussions between Brighton and the Japan Football Association are expected in the coming days as both sides assess the winger’s fitness ahead of the tournament.
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