In a recent turn of events, Junya Ito has withdrawn from Japan's Asian Cup squad following the emergence of sexual assault allegations against him. The decision was made in mutual agreement with coach Hajime Moriyasu. However, Moriyasu remains confident that Ito's absence will not have a negative impact on the team's performance as they prepare to face Iran in the quarterfinals.
Ito, who had appeared in all three of Japan's group stage matches, was an unused substitute in their round of 16 victory over Bahrain. Reports in Japan revealed that two women had filed a criminal complaint against him, accusing him of sexual assault. The allegations have sparked an investigation in Osaka, although Ito and his lawyer vehemently deny the claims and have even filed a criminal complaint of their own, alleging falsehood in the accusations.
