Brighton cannot yet give Japan a clear answer on Kaoru Mitoma, and that is the story now. Fabian Hurzeler said he is not sure whether the winger will be fit for the World Cup, after a hamstring injury cut short his season and ruled him out of Brighton’s final two Premier League games.
What Hurzeler said about the injury
Mitoma came off after 58 minutes against Wolves, and Hurzeler did not dress that up as anything more positive than it was. "Regarding the World Cup, I'm not sure yet," the Brighton manager said. He added: "We really have to be patient with this injury, we cannot give a clear schedule."
That lack of a clear schedule is the key detail for Japan. Their World Cup campaign opens against the Netherlands on 14 June, and Hurzeler cannot yet say whether one of their most important attackers will be available.
Why the timing matters for Brighton and Japan
Brighton are seventh in the Premier League, so losing Mitoma for the final stretch matters to them too. He had already been a major part of their season, with 25 Premier League appearances and a 6.82 rating. His most recent outing against Wolves also produced a 6.7 rating before the injury ended his night early.
Hurzeler said Mitoma "was in good form and had a big impact on our performances," which is the other reason this is more than a routine injury update. Brighton know they are missing a player who has been a regular contributor, and Japan are left waiting on a fitness call that is still not there.
For now, the only firm position is the one Hurzeler has already given. Mitoma is out of Brighton’s last two league games, and his World Cup involvement remains unresolved until the recovery picture becomes clearer.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 1 outlet. How we work →
