Japan’s coach, Hajime Moriyasu, is confident that defender Takehiro Tomiyasu can still make the national team’s World Cup squad despite being a free agent. Tomiyasu, 27, has been plagued by injuries over the past two years, which led to his departure from Arsenal in July. The Japanese international is currently focusing on his rehabilitation and has been in contact with the national team, with Moriyasu saying he’s impressed with Tomiyasu’s progress.
“If he is in good shape, he will be a candidate to help Japan challenge to win the World Cup in North America,” Moriyasu said. Tomiyasu, who has 42 caps for Japan, played at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is eager to regain his fitness and secure a spot in the squad. With just over half a year to go until the World Cup, Moriyasu is optimistic about Tomiyasu’s chances, stating, “To answer simply, I think he can make it”.
