Naruto: Kishimoto Has Already Confirmed Naruto’s Perfect Replacement As Hokage

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This article contains spoilers from the Naruto series.

In the world of Naruto and Boruto, the Hokage is undoubtedly the most respected and important title anyone can achieve. Essentially, the Hokage is the leader of Konoha, widely considered the strongest ninja village. This leader is responsible for defending the village from danger and ensuring the well-being of all its citizens. They also handle all of Konoha’s diplomatic relations, highlighting just how significant and influential the position truly is.

The Naruto series has shown us many Hokage leaders throughout the years, and right now, Naruto Uzumaki is the Seventh Hokage. But Naruto won’t be Hokage forever. A key part of the job is preparing the next generation and inspiring someone to take over. Eventually, a new leader will be chosen from this next generation, continuing the cycle of Hokage.

For a long time, fans have wondered who would become the next Hokage. However, the answer was likely revealed by the series creator, Kishimoto, during the time skip in the Naruto story. It won’t be long before this new leader is officially in charge of the village.

Naruto Uzumaki Cannot Be The Hokage In Boruto Anymore

Image via studio Pierrot.
  • Naruto won’t return before the end of Boruto
  • Konoha can’t stay without a Hokage for too long

Let’s first understand why Konoha needs a new Hokage before discussing who will be chosen. There are two key reasons why a new leader is needed, and the situation is urgent.

Boruto, everyone in this village is like family to me. I’m responsible for protecting them all. — Naruto Uzumaki

One main reason Naruto isn’t very involved in the Boruto story is that the writers seem to want to move the plot forward without him. While many fans are disappointed, this explains his current role. Early in the series, Naruto lost his abilities, and later he was sealed away by Kawaki. He’s remained sealed ever since, and it looks like he’ll stay that way.

It’s been three years, and the village of Konoha needs a permanent Hokage. While Shikamaru is currently acting as an interim leader, he can’t postpone the official appointment indefinitely. Despite knowing Naruto is still alive, the village requires a new, established leader, and the time for a formal election is approaching.

Another key reason Konoha needs a new Hokage is that the creator, Kishimoto, has indicated Naruto Uzumaki won’t return until the Boruto series ends. This means existing storylines about other characters potentially becoming Hokage can’t happen if Naruto just resumes his old position.

This isn’t about Kishimoto’s ability, but rather the potential for long-running character storylines to be left unresolved. The series suggests Konoha will need a new leader, and it’s likely we’ll see two different people become Hokage before it ends.

Kishimoto Has Already Set Up Konohamaru As Naruto’s Replacement

  • Konohamaru was set up by Kishimoto to become the Hokage

Currently, Konoha has informally chosen Shikamaru Nara to act as the Eighth Hokage, but he can’t handle the job alone. Shikamaru excels as a strategist and negotiator, but lacks the strength and inspirational qualities needed to be Hokage. When Konoha officially selects a new leader—which is expected soon—Shikamaru shouldn’t be considered. Konohamaru Sarutobi is the only one currently prepared to lead Konoha as the next Hokage.

I’m going to be the Seventh Hokage. Big bro Naruto is going to be the Sixth! — Konohamaru Sarutobi

As many fans are aware, Konohamaru comes from a strong lineage – he’s the grandson of the Third Hokage and belongs to a highly respected clan. While he’s demonstrated considerable power, the Boruto series hasn’t showcased it effectively. Currently, he seems weaker than he should be, which is the main obstacle to him becoming Hokage. However, Boruto has repeatedly proven that things can change quickly, so his potential is still there.

Sarada initially struggled, but unlocking her Mangekyo Sharingan instantly made her exceptionally powerful. A similar power-up could happen for Konohamaru, and if it does, he’s positioned to become the next Hokage – something the original author, Kishimoto, has already hinted at. It’s important to remember Konohamaru’s background: he trained under Naruto and is the grandson of the Third Hokage. He’s publicly stated his ambition to follow in Naruto’s footsteps as Hokage, so fans anticipate Kishimoto will fulfill that storyline soon.

Sarada Uchiha Will Eventually Replace Konohamaru

  • Sarada Could Become The Next Hokage Of Konoha

Following Konohamaru Sarutobi, the village of Konoha is looking to the next generation for a new leader, and all signs point to Sarada Uchiha. Currently, Sarada is the most likely candidate to become the Ninth Hokage, which would make her the second woman and the first Uchiha to ever hold the position. She possesses both the personality and the power needed to be a great leader.

I’ve made up my mind! I’m going to become a ninja, just like Lord Seventh. — Sarada Uchiha

Sarada has the potential to be Naruto Uzumaki’s successor, even more so than Konohamaru. Right now, her main weaknesses are a lack of experience and maturity. She isn’t ready to be Hokage yet, and needs more battle experience. However, as she faces stronger opponents in the Blue Vortex arc and learns about diplomacy, that will likely change in the coming years.

Sarada isn’t quite ready to become Hokage yet, but if timing were different, she’d be a natural leader, especially with the Seventh Hokage currently unavailable. Luckily, Konoha is well-protected by a strong new generation of ninjas. By the end of the Boruto series, Sarada is expected to achieve her lifelong dream of becoming Hokage, with Boruto Uzumaki faithfully supporting her as her protector. Together, they’re poised to guide Konoha into a peaceful future, and fans are eagerly anticipating it.

Boruto: Two Blue Vortex is the continuation of the Boruto story, created by Mikio Ikemoto and with supervision from Masashi Kishimoto. The series picks up three years after the events of the Omnipotence arc, and follows Boruto Uzumaki as he strives to protect the world, alongside his brother Kawaki. Chapter 31 of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex will be released on February 20, 2026, at 10 AM EST / 3 PM UTC. Fans can read it for free on the Manga Plus and Shonen Jump apps.

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2026-01-29 02:36