Japan national team coach Hajime Moriyasu has shared his thoughts on the potential transfer of midfielder Ritsu Doan to Saudi Arabia. According to a report by Sports Hochi on August 29, Moriyasu acknowledged the financial appeal for players while questioning the sporting level of the Saudi league.
What are the specific transfer terms?
Saudi club Al-Ittihad is targeting Doan, who currently plays for Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga. An official offer of 18 million euros (approximately 28.8 billion Korean won) has been submitted. Doan's proposed annual salary is reported to be 9 million euros (about 14.4 billion won). With Saudi Arabia imposing zero personal income tax on foreign workers, the net financial gain is substantial.
Eintracht Frankfurt is facing financial difficulties and is reportedly welcoming the offer to pay the full transfer fee. However, manager Adi Hütter opposes the move and wants to retain Doan. Negotiations between the clubs have progressed significantly, with some outlets suggesting a deal is close to being finalized.
What did Coach Moriyasu say?
Moriyasu presented two clear perspectives on the matter. As reported by the Korean outlet Chosun.com, the coach stated, "I think earning money is also a value system for a player, and it’s not a bad thing as it shows they are recognized as good players."
He did, however, express reservations about the competitive standard. "However, when asked if the level is truly comparable to Europe, I think it’s a bit different from the top five European leagues, even if many good players are moving there," Moriyasu said. Doan could become the first active Japan international to move from a top European league to Saudi Arabia, and many Japanese fans hope he remains in Europe.
How does this affect the national team?
This transfer speculation emerges as Japan maintains strong form in 2026 World Cup qualifying. The team currently sits 2nd in their group with 5 points from 3 games (1 win, 2 draws). Their recent form across the last five matches is 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss. The next fixture is at home against Uruguay on September 24. The full schedule can be viewed on our fixtures page.
Doan, born in 1998, is 28 years old and a product of the Gamba Osaka academy. He moved through Groningen and PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands before joining Frankfurt. As one of Japan's key players, his club situation could impact the national team setup. The current squad list is available on our squad page.
Are there personal connections influencing the move?
Al-Ittihad is managed by Jens Weiszer, who was Doan's mentor during his time at PSV Eindhoven and also formerly coached Gamba Osaka. This existing relationship could be a factor. Reports also indicate Doan is open to becoming the first Japanese player to compete in the Saudi Premier League.
Speculation exists that Doan's absence from the Bundesliga opener due to a minor injury could be related to transfer activities. Negotiations are said to be in their final stages, with both sides discussing contract details. Some reports claim Doan changed his mind about leaving after being persuaded by Hütter, but the offer on the table is described as difficult to refuse.
Japan has scored 7 goals and conceded 3 in qualifying, showing attacking promise where a creative player like Doan is vital. Detailed team statistics are tracked on our stats page. The implications for his future national team contributions will be closely watched.
