Junya Ito Removed from Japan's Asian Cup Squad Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

The winger denies the allegations, which have led to his removal from the team as they prepare for a crucial quarterfinal match.

Junya Ito, a winger for Japan's national team and French club Reims, has been removed from the Asian Cup squad amid sexual assault allegations, which he denies.
Two women have filed a criminal complaint in Osaka, alleging Ito sexually assaulted them last year; Ito has filed his own complaint claiming the allegations are false.
Japan's Football Association made the decision to remove Ito to allow the team to focus on football, amidst preparations for their quarterfinal match against Iran.
Despite Ito's departure, Japan's coach Hajime Moriyasu expressed confidence that the team's performance would not be affected, highlighting the team's depth.
The situation remains under investigation by Osaka police, with differing accounts of the alleged incident complicating the matter.