Moriyasu Takeshi set for third term as Japan manager
Japan manager Moriyasu Takeshi will continue for a third term as the Samurai Blue aim for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the team’s recent form under scrutiny after the June 29 loss to Brazil (2-1), the manager is doubling down on strengthening ties with the current coaching staff to rebuild cohesion.
The defeat to Brazil marked the end of the last run. In the five matches before that, Japan posted two wins, two draws and one loss (LDWDW), a record that left room for improvement. Moriyasu has held multiple talks with his staff to rebuild trust and sharpen the team’s identity.
Why a third term now
Moriyasu’s third term is part of a clear roadmap toward the 2026 World Cup. With the recent patchy form, the manager is betting on continuity with the existing staff while addressing weak spots. He stressed keeping the same group together, saying, “Working with the staff we have would make operations smoother.”
He also framed staff relations as the key to unlocking better performances, noting, “Valuing the current coaching staff is the starting point.”
Fixing the current setup
After the recent dip, Moriyasu is prioritizing staff relations to iron out tactical kinks and sharpen communication with players. He told reporters, “Continuity with the current staff would allow smoother team management,” signaling a blend of stability and fresh input.
Road to 2026 and beyond
The manager is now shifting focus to full preparations for the 2026 World Cup. He plans to deepen collaboration with the current staff to rebuild team unity and performance.
Reflecting on the Brazil loss, Moriyasu said, “If we can work with this staff, better results will follow.” He is accelerating preparations while tightening staff bonds ahead of the next cycle.
