Key Takeaways:
- On Sunday, Takumi Minamino tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Monaco’s 2-1 French Cup win over Auxerre
- Medical tests on Monday confirmed the injury, which typically requires a recovery period of six to nine months
- Japan will compete in Group F at the 2026 World Cup, opening against the Netherlands on 14 June in Dallas
Minamino’s World Cup Hopes Dashed by Knee Injury
Japan’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup have been dealt a significant blow with the news that Takumi Minamino has suffered a severe knee injury. The 30-year-old Monaco midfielder sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during his club’s 2-1 victory over Auxerre in the French Cup on Sunday.
Monaco released an official statement confirming the diagnosis following medical examinations conducted on Monday. This type of injury typically sidelines players for six to nine months, effectively ruling out Minamino’s participation in next year’s tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, scheduled from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
During the 32nd round of the Coupe de France match played in Auxerre, our midfielder Takumi Minamino suffered an injury to his left knee.
Medical examinations revealed a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament.
Takumi will be able to count on the support of the entire Club… pic.twitter.com/g58gvxkczn
— AS Monaco EN 🇲🇨 (@AS_Monaco_EN) December 22, 2025
Impact on Japan’s National Team
Minamino’s absence presents a significant challenge for the Japanese squad. The former Liverpool midfielder has been an instrumental figure for the national team, earning 73 caps and scoring 26 goals. His leadership and attacking prowess will be sorely missed as Japan prepare to face strong competition on football’s biggest stage.
Group F Overview and Japan’s Schedule
Japan have been drawn in Group F alongside the Netherlands, Tunisia, and a play-off winner. Their World Cup campaign will commence with a high-profile encounter against the Netherlands on 14 June in Dallas.
