Takefusa Kubo to return to action after knee injury recovery

Japanese midfielder Takefusa Kubo, who missed the opening match of the 2024 FIFA World Cup against the Netherlands because of a left‑knee injury, is sidelined for two pre‑season games (Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa) as he continues his rehabilitation. He joined Real Sociedad this summer and traveled with the Japan squad on the England tour but did not play.

Kubo has resumed most full‑team training at the Spanish club, taking part in all sessions except a tactical drill, and is expected to be available for the upcoming pre‑season match against Toulouse on August 1, with a possible return to competitive action in the La Liga opener against Betis on August 21.