Oiwa named co-manager of Japan national team ahead of 2026 World Cup
Japan Football Association announced on the 24th in Tokyo that U-21 Japan coach Oiwa Takeshi will co-manage the senior national team starting March next year. The dual role runs through the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Japan’s last outing ended in a 2-1 loss to Brazil on June 29.
Why the co-manager move?
Technical director Yamamoto Masakuni stressed at the press conference that appointing a manager “isn’t simply about choosing one person.” He praised Oiwa’s track record and urged a measured start rather than rushing into changes.
Citing former boss Philippe Troussier’s blueprint, Yamamoto noted that players who featured in 2002 and 1999 were honed in just three years to reach the World Cup stage, underscoring the need for urgency.
Benefits vs. burden for Oiwa
“Instead of looking for what we can’t do, we’ll focus on what we can,” Yamamoto said, acknowledging the extra load on Oiwa while vowing full backing to build Japan’s future.
The dual role isn’t easy, Yamamoto admitted, “but the upside is huge.”
Roadmap to 2026 World Cup
Oiwa Takeshi will lead both the senior side and the U-21 team from March next year, shaping preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Japan’s recent form reads two wins, two draws and one loss in the last five (LDWDW), with the June 29 defeat to Brazil serving as the latest reference point.
Yamamoto vowed to push forward “with the speed needed to reach the summit by the World Cup.”
