Following a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury to his right knee, Japan international Nagatomo shared details of the incident on social media.

Nagatomo wrote:

As reported, I suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear.

I got injured shortly after the start of the match on September 12, but because the pain was minor, I continued playing for 45 minutes.

At the time, it felt like just a slight knee pain, but during the examination the next day, the doctor told me my ACL was torn, and I was shocked.

Looking back at my football career, being called up to the national team in my first year, experiencing five World Cups, and having the privilege of meeting exceptional teams, coaches, and teammates, reaching this point without a major injury feels nothing short of a miracle.

Things have gone too smoothly.

What I lacked was the pain and suffering of a major injury.

I believe this is an experience I need for my future.

I asked myself:

Do I choose a football career without injury but no championship, or a football career with major injuries but ultimately winning the championship?

I answered without hesitation: A football career with major injuries but ultimately winning the championship is better.

I once again confirmed my strong desire to win the championship with this team.

However, for God to give me victory and a major injury as a gift on my 40th birthday, the scale of it is too grand (laughs).

I anticipate unimaginable pain and suffering ahead, but I want to be grateful for every day and experience it fully.

While dreaming of winning and lifting the championship trophy.

Until then, I'll entrust things to my younger teammates.

I will definitely come back stronger!

Thanks for everything.

September 21, 2026, Nagatomo

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