"The Japan Football Association has been saying that we want to win the World Cup by 2050, and we are taking on the challenge to improve so that we can make it happen."

Moriyasu knows that his team is not there yet, and said it has to "improve in every department "before heading to North America.

Europe-based talent

He can call on more Europe-based players than ever, with 11 appearing in this season's UEFA Champions League.

Captain Wataru Endo has become an important member of Liverpool's squad, while Kaoru Mitoma has developed into one of the best wingers in the Premier League at Brighton.

Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo is one of the best attackers in the Spanish league.

Japan has more strength in depth than ever before, but Endo says there is no friction between players competing for starting places.

"We all have to think about what's best for the team and everyone understands that," he said.

"I think that's a particular strong point among Japanese people. I think Japan are the strongest when it comes to team unity."