Japan boss accepts 'reality' as Asian Cup shift muddies departure

Japan's head coach Hajime Moriyasu has accepted the reality of the 2027 Asian Cup's postponement to December, potentially denying him his last chance at winning silverware before his departure. The Asian Football Confederation pushed back the tournament due to exceptional circumstances in the region following Houthi attacks. Originally scheduled to be held in Saudi Arabia, the Asian Cup is now set to take place almost a year later.

Moriyuas, Japan's longest-serving coach, stated that the development of the country's football is more important than his personal circumstances. He emphasized that even if the Asian Cup had proceeded, the seven matches wouldn't have been lost, and a new management team could make use of the rescheduled games in preparation for the next World Cup. Japan's technical director Masakuni Yamamoto declined to comment on the situation as Moriyasu named the squad for friendlies against Brazil and Paraguay in Singapore.

Moriyasu, who led Japan to their first-ever win over Brazil in a friendly earlier this year, maintained that the Asian Cup postponement has not affected his squad selection for the upcoming matches. He emphasized that the team consistently strives to give their best in each game and connect it to the future. The squad includes Aston Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada, and Takumi Minamino, who returned after missing the World Cup due to injury.