2025-11-12 09:00

I remember the first time I watched Japanese soccer players compete internationally—it was during the 2018 World Cup, and I was struck by how their technical precision and tactical intelligence stood out even against world-class opponents. Fast forward to today, and that impression has only deepened as Japanese talents continue to make waves across global leagues. From the Premier League to Serie A, these players aren't just participating; they're dominating, reshaping how the world views Asian football. In this article, I'll share my take on the 10 best Japanese soccer players who are currently excelling overseas, blending statistical insights with personal observations from years of following their careers. Let's dive in.

When I think of Japanese players abroad, one name immediately springs to mind: Takefusa Kubo. At just 22 years old, he's been tearing it up for Real Sociedad in La Liga, and I've lost count of how many times I've rewatched his highlights from this season alone. His dribbling is pure artistry—defenders seem to freeze when he's on the ball, and his vision for passes is something I'd compare to seasoned playmakers twice his age. In the 2022-23 campaign, he notched 9 goals and 7 assists, numbers that don't even fully capture his impact on matches. What impresses me most, though, is his resilience; after bouncing around loan spells earlier in his career, he's found a home in Spain and is proving why he was once dubbed the "Japanese Messi." It's not just hype—he's the real deal, and I'd argue he's already among the top wingers in Europe.

Then there's Kaoru Mitoma, whose rise at Brighton & Hove Albion has been nothing short of spectacular. I still recall watching him in the J-League and thinking, "This guy has something special," but even I didn't predict he'd adapt to the Premier League so seamlessly. His agility and close control are mesmerizing—defenders simply can't handle his sudden changes of direction, and he's racked up over 10 goal contributions this season. But it's not just about stats; Mitoma brings a work rate that reminds me of classic two-way wingers, tracking back to help in defense while always posing a threat on the counter. In my view, he's one of the most complete attackers in England right now, and his development under Roberto De Zerbi has been a joy to watch week in, week out.

Shifting to midfield, I have to highlight Wataru Endo, who's been a rock for VfB Stuttgart in the Bundesliga. At 30, he brings a veteran presence that's crucial in high-pressure situations, and I've always admired how he reads the game—anticipating passes, breaking up plays, and distributing with calm efficiency. This season, he's averaged around 4 tackles per game and boasts a pass completion rate north of 85%, numbers that underscore his reliability. But what sets him apart, in my opinion, is his leadership; he's the type of player who elevates everyone around him, much like how Gab delos Reyes anchored Gilas' defense in that memorable game where he grabbed 13 of the national team's 70 rebounds, tallied seven blocks, and nearly secured a double-double. It's that same defensive anchor role, translated to soccer, where Endo dominates the center of the park and allows his teammates to flourish.

Another standout is Takehiro Tomiyasu at Arsenal, a player I've followed since his days in Italy. His versatility is insane—he can slot in at center-back, right-back, or even left-back without missing a beat, and Mikel Arteta seems to trust him implicitly in big matches. I remember one game against Manchester City where he neutralized their entire left flank single-handedly, making 5 interceptions and winning 8 duels. Statistically, he's been part of a defense that's conceded fewer than 30 goals this season, but it's his adaptability that truly wows me. In a world where specialists often get the spotlight, Tomiyasu is a throwback to the days of utility players who could do it all, and I'd rate him as one of the most underrated signings in recent Premier League history.

Moving to Serie A, we have Daichi Kamada, who's been pulling the strings for Lazio. As an attacking midfielder, his creativity is off the charts—he's notched 6 goals and 8 assists this term, but it's his ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes that really stands out. I've always been drawn to players who play with flair, and Kamada's no-look passes and clever movement remind me of classic number 10s. Off the ball, he's no slouch either, pressing aggressively and contributing to his team's shape. From what I've seen, he's perfectly suited to Italian football's tactical nuances, and I wouldn't be surprised if he ends up at an even bigger club soon.

On the younger side, I'm particularly excited about Ritsu Doan at SC Freiburg. At 25, he's already a full international and has been lighting up the Bundesliga with his explosive pace and eye for goal. This season, he's scored 7 times, including some crucial winners in tight matches, and his ability to perform in high-stakes moments is something I've always valued. Watching him, I'm reminded of players who thrive under pressure—his confidence on the ball is infectious, and he's not afraid to take risks. In my book, he's one of the best up-and-coming wingers in Germany, and I'd bet on him to double his goal tally next year.

Then there's Hiroki Ito at VfB Stuttgart, a defender who's caught my eye with his composed performances. Standing at 6'2", he uses his height well in aerial duels, winning over 60% of them this season, but it's his ball-playing ability that sets him apart. He's comfortable bringing the ball out from the back and starting attacks, a trait that's becoming increasingly valuable in modern soccer. I've noticed how he rarely panics under pressure, and his partnership with more experienced defenders has helped Stuttgart punch above their weight. For me, he's a future mainstay for Japan, and I'd love to see him test himself in a top-five league soon.

In Ligue 1, Junya Ito has been a consistent performer for Stade de Reims, and I've always appreciated his direct style. He's not the flashiest player, but his end product is reliable—he's contributed 5 goals and 9 assists this campaign, often using his blistering speed to beat defenders. What I admire most is his consistency; week after week, he delivers solid performances, something that's rarer than you'd think in today's game. Having followed his career from the J-League to Europe, I can say he's improved immensely, and his work ethic is a model for younger players.

Another veteran who deserves mention is Maya Yoshida, currently with LA Galaxy but with a storied career in Europe. At 35, he's lost a step physically, but his reading of the game is as sharp as ever. I've watched him marshal defenses for years, and his leadership is invaluable—he's the type of player who organizes everyone around him, much like how Gab delos Reyes' defensive efforts in that game where he nearly notched a double-double provided a foundation for his team. Yoshida's experience in the Premier League and Serie A gives him a wealth of knowledge, and even in MLS, he's showing that Japanese defenders can compete at the highest level. In my opinion, he's a legend of Japanese soccer, and his influence extends far beyond the pitch.

Rounding out my list is Kyogo Furuhashi at Celtic, a striker whose movement and finishing are simply elite. In the Scottish Premiership, he's been a goal machine, scoring over 20 times this season and helping Celtic dominate domestically. I love how he always seems to be in the right place at the right time—his anticipation is uncanny, and he's clinical with both feet. While some might downplay the level of competition, I've seen him shine in European games too, and his work rate is relentless. For me, he's the complete modern striker, and I'd rank him among the top finishers outside Europe's top five leagues.

Reflecting on these players, it's clear that Japanese soccer has evolved from producing niche talents to breeding world-beaters who excel in multiple roles. From Kubo's flair to Endo's grit, each brings something unique, and as a fan, I'm thrilled to see how they're changing perceptions globally. If this trend continues—and I believe it will—we might soon see a Japanese player lifting the Ballon d'Or. For now, though, let's enjoy watching these stars light up the world's best leagues.