Japan · FWD
Kaoru Mitoma
35
Caps
8
Goals
Brighton
Club
28
Age
82
FIFA Rating
About Kaoru Mitoma
Kaoru Mitoma is one of the most exciting wingers in world football and a key attacking force for Japan at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Born in 1997, Mitoma is renowned for his mesmerising dribbling, close control and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. He famously kept the ball in play by a matter of millimetres to set up a crucial goal against Spain at the previous World Cup, a moment that symbolised Japan's fine margins of success. At Brighton in the Premier League he has established himself as a top-level winger with pace, skill and end product. His creativity and directness make him Japan's most dangerous wide threat. At 28 during the tournament, Mitoma is in his prime and central to Japan's ambitions of reaching the latter stages of the World Cup for the first time.
Career highlights
Kaoru Mitoma is a key player for Brighton and one of the standout stars of the Japan national team. With 35 international caps and 8 goals, and a FIFA rating of 82, he ranks among the elite footballers heading into World Cup 2026.
World Cup 2026 role
At FIFA World Cup 2026, Kaoru Mitoma is expected to be a pivotal figure in the Japan squad. The tournament is hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico with 48 teams and 104 matches, and Japan will rely on the experience and quality of Kaoru Mitoma in his attacking role.
Key stats
Age: 28 · Position: FWD · Club: Brighton · International caps: 35 · International goals: 8 · FIFA rating: 82.