Japanese Players in the Premier League
The Premier League has welcomed many talented Japanese players over the years.
Key words
- Debut: the first time someone performs or appears in a particular role or activity
He made his debut for the national team at just 18 years old.
- Versatility: the ability to adapt to different situations or perform different roles
His versatility allows him to play in multiple positions on the field.
- On loan: temporarily playing for another team, usually with an agreement to return
The young striker was sent on loan to gain more playing experience.
- Vital: extremely important or necessary
His goal in the final minutes was vital for securing the team’s victory.
- A short spell: a brief period of time doing something
He had a short spell at the club before moving to a bigger team.
Comprehension Questions
- How many Japanese players have played in the Premier League?
- Which Japanese player has made the most Premier League appearances?
- What role does Wataru Endo play for Liverpool?
- Which Japanese player won the Premier League with Leicester City?
Japanese Players in the Premier League
The Premier League, one of the most popular football leagues in the world, has welcomed many talented Japanese players over the years. Since the first Japanese player made his debut, a total of 14 players from Japan have played in the league. Their presence has helped to increase football’s popularity in Japan, competing with baseball as the nation's favorite sport.
Current Japanese Players
Four Japanese players are currently playing in the Premier League.
- Daichi Kamada recently joined Crystal Palace from Eintracht Frankfurt. The 27-year-old midfielder is expected to play an important role in the 2024/25 season.
- Takehiro Tomiyasu signed with Arsenal in 2021 from Bologna. Known for his versatility, he has played 64 matches in the league.
- Kaoru Mitoma joined Brighton in 2021 and spent one season on loan in Belgium. He has become a key player for Brighton, contributing 19 goal involvements in 52 matches.
- Wataru Endo signed for Liverpool in 2023 from Stuttgart. The defensive midfielder has made 29 appearances and has been a vital part of Liverpool’s midfield.
Japanese Players of the Past
Several Japanese players have left a mark on the Premier League:
- Junichi Inamoto played for Fulham, West Bromwich Albion, and Arsenal. He is remembered for scoring a famous goal against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
- Kazuyuki Toda had a short spell at Tottenham Hotspur in 2003, making four appearances.
- Hidetoshi Nakata played for Bolton Wanderers in 2005 before retiring.
- Ryo Miyaichi signed with Arsenal in 2011 and had loan spells at Bolton and Wigan.
- Maya Yoshida played for Southampton for eight years, making 154 appearances, the most by a Japanese player.
- Shinji Kagawa won the Premier League with Manchester United in 2013.
- Shinji Okazaki was part of Leicester City's historic title-winning team in 2015/16.
- Yoshinori Muto played for Newcastle United before returning to Japan.
- Takumi Minamino joined Liverpool in 2020 and won the Premier League in his first season.
Japanese players continue to impact the Premier League, helping to grow the sport's popularity in Japan.
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Discussion questions
- Do you have any questions about the vocabulary or grammar in this article?
- How do you think Japanese players have influenced the Premier League and football culture in England?
- What challenges do you think Japanese players face when adapting to English football?
- Do you think football will become more popular than baseball in Japan? Why or why not?
- Which Japanese player do you think has had the biggest impact in the Premier League? Explain your choice.
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