De Zerbi shocked at Mitoma’s Asian Cup call-up

Brighton head coach Roberto de Zerbi admits he is “surprised” by injured attacker Kaoru Mitoma’s call-up by Japan for the Asian Cup.

Roberto de Zerbi says he is “surprised” by Kaoru Mitoma’s call-up by Japan for the Asian Cup.#BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/FPNWLUalJs

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) January 1, 2024

The Japanese sustained an ankle problem during his team’s 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace on December 21^st.

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The Seagulls boss announced that Kaoru was expected to be sidelined for up to a month and a half, but despite that, the winger was featured in Japan’s final squad for the competition today.

The Asian Cup will be played in Qatar from January 12^th to February 10^th.

“I’m really shocked because team doctors revealed to me Mitoma needs 4, 7 weeks for his problem,” shared De Zerbi, speaking before tomorrow’s Premier League match vs. West Ham United.

“For me, it’s difficult to imagine that he could heal and will be able to play at the tournament in Qatar.”

Roberto added that he is a fan of Mitoma, and if they can play for their national team, he is very happy and proud.