Japan has become a powerhouse in global soccer, producing world-class talent that shines in top European leagues. In 2025, Japanese players continue to dominate with their technical skill, versatility, and work ethic. Here’s a look at the 10 best Japanese soccer players making waves this year.
1. Daichi Kamada
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Club: Crystal Palace (Premier League)
Daichi Kamada is Japan’s most dynamic playmaker. After a stellar career in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt, he joined Crystal Palace in 2024. Known for his creativity and precision, Kamada has already contributed 2 goals and 1 assist in 20 Premier League appearances this season. His vision and ability to control the midfield make him indispensable.
- Key Stat: 40 career goals and 33 assists in the Bundesliga
- Style: Agile, with a knack for scoring in big games
2. Kaoru Mitoma
Position: Left Winger
Club: Brighton & Hove Albion (Premier League)
Mitoma is a fan favorite at Brighton, combining speed, dribbling, and clinical finishing. In the 2024/25 season, he has 5 goals and 3 assists in 23 Premier League matches. His ability to cut inside from the wing and create chances has drawn comparisons to global stars.
- Key Stat: 0.28 expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes
- Style: Explosive dribbler with a deadly left foot
3. Takefusa Kubo
Position: Right Winger
Club: Real Sociedad (La Liga)
Kubo, nicknamed the “Japanese Messi,” continues to impress in Spain. With 4 goals and 4 assists in 21 La Liga games, he’s a constant threat on the right flank. His close control and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses make him one of Europe’s most exciting wingers.
- Key Stat: 81% dribble success rate
- Style: Creative, unpredictable, and technically gifted
4. Ritsu Doan
Position: Right Winger
Club: SC Freiburg (Bundesliga)
Doan is a Bundesliga standout, scoring 6 goals and 2 assists in 17 matches this season. His versatility allows him to play anywhere across the front line, and his relentless energy disrupts defenses.
- Key Stat: 0.35 expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes
- Style: High-pressing winger with a powerful shot
5. Takehiro Tomiyasu
Position: Defender (Right-Back/Center-Back)
Club: Arsenal (Premier League)
Tomiyasu’s defensive versatility is unmatched. Despite injuries limiting him to 6 Premier League appearances in 2024/25, his ability to shut down attackers and play out from the back keeps him crucial for Arsenal.
- Key Stat: 89% tackle success rate
- Style: Composed, strong in aerial duels, and tactically intelligent
6. Ayase Ueda
Position: Striker
Club: Feyenoord (Eredivisie)
Ueda is Japan’s top striker in 2025, with 3 goals in 11 Eredivisie games for Feyenoord. His positioning and finishing make him a constant threat, and he’s vital for Japan’s national team.
- Key Stat: 0.57 expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes
- Style: Poacher with excellent off-ball movement
7. Wataru Endo
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Club: Liverpool (Premier League)
Endo anchors Liverpool’s midfield with his tackling and passing range. Though not a prolific scorer, his leadership and ability to break up plays are invaluable.
- Key Stat: 92% pass accuracy in the Premier League
- Style: Tenacious, disciplined, and a natural leader
8. Junya Ito
Position: Right Winger
Club: Stade de Reims (Ligue 1)
Ito is an assist machine, delivering 9 assists in 7 games for Japan in 2025. His pace and crossing ability make him a nightmare for defenders.
- Key Stat: 1.29 assists per 90 minutes for Japan
- Style: Lightning-fast winger with pinpoint delivery
9. Koki Ogawa
Position: Striker
Club: NEC Nijmegen (Eredivisie)
Ogawa is rising fast, with 6 goals in 8 games for Japan this year. His physicality and aerial ability make him a classic target striker.
- Key Stat: 75% shot accuracy
- Style: Powerful finisher who thrives in the box
10. Hiroki Ito
Position: Center-Back
Club: VfB Stuttgart (Bundesliga)
Ito is a rock in defense for Stuttgart, known for his calmness under pressure and ability to start attacks from the back.
- Key Stat: 87% tackle success rate in the Bundesliga
- Style: Modern defender comfortable with the ball at his feet
Conclusion
Japanese players are no longer underdogs—they’re leaders in Europe’s top leagues. From Kamada’s creativity to Tomiyasu’s defensive mastery, these athletes prove Japan’s soccer future is brighter than ever. Whether you’re a new fan or a seasoned follower, these 10 players are worth watching in 2025!