Kishimoto reveals the reason why Naruto cannot return yet

The Boruto the manga is moving on without Naruto Uzumaki, despite long-time fans' constant demands to bring him back as soon as possible. It's been ages since fans have seen an active Naruto in Konoha and on the battlefield, and many have begun to wonder if Kishimoto is intentionally saving Naruto's epic return for the end Boruto manga.

after all Boruto it's not Naruto Uzumaki's story anymoreand his era is long gone. By sealing Naruto away, in addition to Sasuke's unfortunate situation, Kishimoto and Ikemoto effectively marked the end of the older generation's vigilante protection, at least for now. Whether fans like it or not, Naruto won't be seeing the light of day anytime soon.

Boruto is no longer about Naruto Uzumaki

Naruto passed the torch to Boruto a long time ago

• Boruto is not the story of Naruto Uzumaki.

• Boruto moves on without Naruto Uzumaki in the front line.

Many anime and manga fans grew up with Naruto Uzumaki, watching him evolve from a brash but lonely outcast into a legendary hero who unites the shinobi world in his own ninja way. So it is very understandable that Naruto's long absence Boruto left fans frustrated and disappointed, especially now that an incredibly powerful villain is threatening the world.

However, fans would love to see Naruto once again own the limelight like he once did in the original series, it's time to embrace it. Boruto it's not about Naruto Uzumaki anymore. From day one, the manga was clear in its intention to shift the focus to Boruto Uzumaki and the next generation, exploring their struggles, ideals, and the challenges of life in modern Konoha shaped by the heroes who came before them.

Of course, it's not easy to let go of Naruto and the older generation, given the huge influence they have despite being inactive and mostly absent. Boruto. Fans are still optimistic about the future of the Seventh Hokage, hoping that Kishimoto and Ikemoto will give Naruto an incredible power that could restore his legendary status. But as mentioned, Boruto isn't about Naruto anymore, so it wouldn't be a surprise if he never gets another major upgrade.

Naruto's absence pushes Boruto to grow stronger

Kishimoto used Naruto's seal to upgrade the new generation

Even without a proper statement, it is quite clear Kishimoto used Naruto's seal to force Boruto Uzumaki and the next generation to grow stronger. Without Naruto, it's easier for Kishimoto to accelerate Boruto's growth and throw him into countless life-or-death situations. With Naruto, these key moments would be lost for Boruto as the Seventh Hokage stepped in to save the day.

It's not just Boruto who grew stronger after Naruto was sealed away, Sarada also learned to adapt to a more dangerous and uncertain world. She has taken on more responsibility as she is immune to Eida's omnipotence, in addition to unlocking the Mangekyo Sharingan: Ohirume. Then there's Himawari, who also gets a lot of power, being the tailed incarnation of Kurama.

In Naruto's absence, Boruto and the next generation finally learned what it means to live in an uncertain world without their greatest protector. They have finally tasted true vulnerability, and every decision now carries greater risk. Unfortunately, that won't change anytime soon Kishimoto and Ikemoto seemingly plan to keep Naruto sealed away for a long time.

Naruto could return near the end of Boruto

Naruto's final comeback is one way to end Boruto properly

Most fans are now convinced of that Naruto Uzumaki will return near the end Boruto mangaspecifically after the big fight between Boruto and Kawaki. It's one way to quit Boruto, Right, by giving the series a heartfelt reunion between father and son who have endured years of separation.

Besides, Boruto's goal is to restore the Uzumaki household, so bringing Naruto in prematurely would undermine that mission. Naruto's absence serves as one of Boruto's biggest motivations, pushing him to become strong enough not only to protect the world, but also to avoid an untimely death. Naruto's return would serve as the ultimate reward for Boruto's struggles, so it's only fitting that it comes after he's overcome his greatest struggle.

Release date

April 5, 2017

Network

TV Tokyo