Premier League: Manchester City leads as Japanese player presence hits record high

The 2026/27 Premier League season is underway, with Manchester City currently leading the standings after three matches with nine points. Arsenal follows closely in second place with six points. The upcoming schedule features a high-profile Manchester Derby between Manchester United and Manchester City.

This season marks a record high for Japanese representation in the league, with nine players competing: Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton), Wataru Endo (Liverpool), Ao Tanaka (Leeds), Daichi Kamada (Crystal Palace), Takehiro Tomiyasu (Crystal Palace), Ayase Ueda (Aston Villa), Hidemasa Morita (Hull City), Daizen Maeda (Ipswich Town), and Tatsuhito Sakamoto (Coventry City).

Analysts suggest the increased presence of Japanese players is due to their reputation for technical skill, diligence, and reliability. The trend is further supported by players gaining experience in other European leagues before moving to England, as well as changes to work visa regulations.