The Japanese national team has just received a positive signal from Takefusa Kubo’s injury situation.
According to Japanese media, Kubo appeared at the team’s headquarters and performed individual running drills under the supervision of the medical team. Although he has not been able to train with the full squad yet, the return to the pitch of the attacking midfielder born in 2001 is still seen as an important step forward in his recovery process.
Nevertheless, the likelihood of Kubo featuring in the final group stage match against Sweden on June 26 remains low. The Real Sociedad star is highly unlikely to recover in time to feature in a match of great significance for the top spot in the group.
According to the plan, the ideal timeline for Kubo to return is the knockout stage if the Japanese team advances deep and his recovery continues to progress smoothly. Initial reports indicate that the 25-year-old player’s injury is showing positive signs. However, the Japanese coaching staff remains highly cautious to avoid any risk.
Kubo’s absence is a major loss for the “Blue Samurai” because he is one of the most important creative sparks for the team under coach Hajime Moriyasu. In the context of Japan harboring ambitions to progress past the round of 16 in their 8th consecutive World Cup, Kubo’s potential return for the knockout stage will carry significant importance.
