Hajime Moriyasu denies links to Malaysia coaching role

Japanese media reports have denied speculation linking Japan national team coach Hajime Moriyasu to the Malaysian national football team. According to Nikkan Gendai, the 58-year-old coach intends to pursue coaching opportunities in Europe after his tenure with the Samurai Blue concludes.

One potential destination mentioned is the Belgian club Sint-Truidense, which is owned by the Japanese company DMM.com. The club has a history of developing Japanese talent, including players such as Wataru Endo and Takahiro Tomiyasu. Sint-Truidense CEO Takayuki Tateishi has previously expressed interest in bringing Moriyasu to Belgium to serve as a stepping stone to major European leagues.

The news comes as the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) seeks a high-profile replacement following the departure of Peter Cklamovski. While Moriyasu remains under contract with Japan through the 2027 Asian Cup, his preference for European football appears to have sidelined rumors of a move to Southeast Asia.