Moriyasu extends Japan duty until Asian Cup 2027 - 'We’ll give our all'

Moriyasu stays on as Japan boss until Asian Cup 2027 - 'We’ll give our all'

Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu will remain in charge until the end of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, the Japan Football Association announced on 24 July. Japan’s last outing ended in a 2-1 defeat to Brazil on 29 June; their recent form reads two wins, two draws and one loss across the last five matches (LDWDW).

Speaking at an FAJ press conference in Tokyo, Moriyasu said: “Within this contract period I want to give everything with my staff and players so we can hand the baton on well to the next generation, and deliver strong results so we can build toward what comes next.”

Why the six-month extension?

The JFA framed the extension as a move to stabilise the current set-up and prioritise the development of young players. Moriyasu, 59, has led Japan since 2018 and steered the side through the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 AFC Asian Cup.

The decision keeps the existing leadership in place until after the Asian Cup, with an eye on a potential handover once the tournament concludes. Moriyasu stressed that “working as one with players and staff will make the handover to the next generation go as smoothly as possible.”

What’s next for Japan?

Even with the extension confirmed, recent results have been uneven. After the 29 June loss to Brazil, Japan’s last five matches have yielded two wins, two draws and one defeat. Back-to-back setbacks in domestic and warm-up fixtures have left the side searching for rhythm.

Moriyasu insisted: “I want to deliver results within this period so we can build toward what comes next,” signalling a push to turn things around before the Asian Cup. Expect closer looks at youth deployment and tactical tweaks.

Moriyasu’s full remarks and the road ahead

At the press conference Moriyasu said: “Within this contract period I want to give everything with my staff and players so we can hand the baton on well to the next generation, and deliver strong results so we can build toward what comes next.”

Up next are Asian Cup qualifiers and warm-up fixtures leading into the tournament. Moriyasu added: “Together with the players I’ll fight hard to produce solid progress over these six months.”