Japan Football Association Launches European Office to Strengthen International Ties

The Japan Football Association (JFA) has taken a significant step in its international strategy by establishing a European office in London. This initiative, known as J.League Europe, is designed to bolster the presence of Japanese football on the continent and foster deeper connections with European football entities.

The primary objectives of J.League Europe include:

• Enhancing the development of Japanese football through increased engagement with European clubs and organizations.
• Facilitating the exchange of knowledge by organizing training programs for coaches and managers.
• Scouting and supporting player transfers to provide Japanese talent with opportunities in European leagues.
• Assisting J.League clubs in organizing overseas tours to gain international exposure and experience.
• Collaborating with European clubs to share best practices in club management and operations.

Yusuke Akiyama, who has been instrumental in the transfers of Japanese players such as Takefusa Kubo, Ayase Ueda, and Takumi Minamino, will lead this initiative. The program is set to commence in 2025, marking a new phase in the growth of Japanese football.

Historically, the JFA has maintained bases in countries like Belgium and the Netherlands. The establishment of the London office signifies a strategic move to align more closely with European football dynamics. This approach mirrors the strategies previously advocated by Jürgen Klinsmann, former head coach of the South Korea national team, who emphasized the importance of such international collaborations.

Currently, Japan and South Korea have the highest number of players active in European leagues, with Japan leading in representation within the top five European leagues. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, this initiative is poised to further elevate Japanese football, enhancing its competitiveness and global standing.