High quality, low risk: record number of Japanese in Premier League

In the Premier League this season, a record number of Japanese players are playing, with clubs drawn to their quality, value for money, and minimal risk of problems. Ten Japanese players are currently registered with top-tier English teams, with more anticipated before the transfer window closes. The highest-profile arrival is goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who joined Aston Villa from Italian Serie A side Parma.

Former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has returned to London with Crystal Palace, while midfielder Hidemasa Morita has signed for Hull City and Daizen Maeda has moved from Celtic to Ipswich Town. These new Japanese players join established ones like Kaoru Mitoma of Brighton, Wataru Endo of Liverpool, and Daichi Kamada of Crystal Palace.

Joel Pannick, a FIFA-represented agent, notes that English clubs are increasingly confident in signing Japanese players, citing their successful adaptation and integration into teams. Pannick believes that the fear of the unknown has diminished as successful Japanese players set examples for others. Other Japanese players in the Premier League include Ao Tanaka of Leeds, Kota Takai of Spurs, and Tatsuhiro Sakamoto of Coventry.

Veteran football journalist Yoshiyuki Osumi believes that Suzuki's arrival would have a significant impact on Japanese football, as his tactical and communicative abilities will set a new standard for his peers.