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Moriyasu extension; Oiwa set to succeed

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-11 12:26 UTC → 2026-08-20 10:57 UTC · added removed

Japan’s head coach Hajime Moriyasu signed a six-month extension on 23 July 2026, keeping him in charge through the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. The JFA board described the short deal as a bridge to the next phase of the national programme. This decision follows Moriyasu’s leadership through Following the 2026 World Cup, where Japan reached the round of 16 before losing 2-1 to Brazil. During the tournament, Moriyasu’s tactical adjustments drew attention, including 16, Moriyasu confirmed during a viral social media meme comparing his strategic notebook to the manga ‘Death Note’. Following television appearance on 10 August 2026 that he will step down after the World Cup, Moriyasu indicated Asian Cup. He stated he would take a break has no plans to reflect on extend his contract beyond the team’s performance before deciding on tournament and noted that pursuing coaching opportunities with overseas clubs is ‘within my sights’. This potential move follows developments between UEFA and the Asian Football Confederation regarding coaching licenses. On 19 August 2026, the JFA confirmed that Moriyasu and his future. seven-member coaching staff—including Hiroshi Nanami, Shunsuke Nakamura, and Makoto Hasebe—will remain in their roles through the 2027 Asian Cup. After the Asian Cup, U-21 manager Go Oiwa will is set to assume the senior role from March 2027 and remain in charge through the 2030 World Cup cycle, while also continuing to lead the U-21 side for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Oiwa, 54, a former Kashima Antlers coach, has overseen the youth team since 2021, winning two AFC U-23 Asian Cups and securing Paris 2024 Olympic qualification. The extension follows an aborted search for a foreign manager, with candidates such as Roger Schmidt reportedly considered. While some fans and pundits criticised the brief contract as disrespectful to Moriyasu’s record, JFA officials argue it ensures continuity. Moriyasu has since confirmed he will step down after the Asian Cup, noting that pursuing coaching opportunities with overseas clubs is ‘within my sights’. Japan will enter the Asian Cup in Group F with Indonesia, Qatar and Thailand, aiming to win its first title since 2011.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-20 10:57 UTC Moriyasu extension; Oiwa set to succeed
  2. 2026-08-11 12:26 UTC Moriyasu extension; Oiwa set to succeed
  3. 2026-07-27 09:02 UTC Moriyasu extension; Oiwa set to succeed

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