Kubo Takehiro Returns to Real Sociedad, Skips UK Preseason Matches

Japan international Kubo Takehiro, who suffered a left‑knee injury in the World Cup opener against the Netherlands, has rejoined his club Real Sociedad in Spain. On 23 July he arrived at the club’s base, where he carried out gym work and individual pitch training.

Club officials and Spanish media say Kubo will not feature in the two pre‑season friendlies scheduled in the United Kingdom against Wolverhampton Wanderers (25 July) and Aston Villa (28 July). The cautious approach aims to let him regain full fitness before the upcoming La Liga season, which begins on 21 August against Betis. Fellow Japanese player Kaito Kitta also travels with the squad on the UK tour, which will be followed by matches in France and Germany.