Japanese Players in Belgium: A Growing Presence

Belgian media outlet HUMO recently highlighted the increasing number of Japanese players in the Belgian first division. In a match between KV Kortrijk and Sint-Truiden VV (STVV) on September 1st, a total of nine Japanese players took to the pitch. This trend has sparked interest in the possibility of more Japanese players joining Belgian teams before the transfer window closes.

The number of Japanese players in Belgium has been steadily increasing over the years. STVV boasts several key players from the Japanese national team, including midfielder Wataru Endo, defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, and midfielder Daichi Kamada. However, not everyone is pleased with this trend. HUMO expressed concerns that an overabundance of Japanese players could alter the character of Belgian football, making it less interesting and less beneficial for local players.

Meanwhile, Brian Anderlecht, manager of the Belgian first division team RSC Anderlecht, has expressed a different perspective. In an interview with “Het Nieuwsblad” on August 28, Anderlecht emphasized the importance of acquiring players who are familiar with the European style of football and can quickly integrate into the team. While he acknowledged the possibility of signing a Japanese player, he also mentioned that the club may consider players from other regions, such as South America.

Interestingly, Anderlecht’s second team, RSCA Futures, already features forward Keisuke Goto, who will join from Jubilo Iwata in November 2023. As the transfer window draws to a close, it remains to be seen whether any Japanese players will join Belgian teams, despite the criticism and skepticism surrounding their presence in the league.