Japanese captain and Stuttgart midfielder, central to Japan's World Cup plans
Liverpool has secured Ronald Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona with an option to buy. The move strengthens the back line as injuries bite, with Konaté gone and several defenders sidelined. Araujo has taken a pay cut to join and will wear number 33, providing leadership and versatility at centre-back and right-back.
Japan has announced a captaincy change and new roster updates as Endo retires from international duty after a World Cup injury, with Ko Itakura named captain and Shuto Machino called up. The team opens Group F against the Netherlands in Arlington, Texas.