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2 clusters · 2 sources · 21 days · First seen · Last updated

Japanese players in English Championship

Overview

Japanese players have established a presence in the English Championship during the early stages of the 2026 season.

In mid-August, Bristol City manager Michael Skubala confirmed that forward Yuyu Hirakawa was available for selection for the season opener against Millwall after recovering from pre-season injuries.

By early September, Hirakawa’s impact became evident during Matchday 5, where he scored a decisive stoppage-time goal to secure a 2-1 comeback victory for Bristol City against Burnley. Other Japanese players also featured in league action, including Reo Hatate, who made his debut for Burnley, and Kuki Matsuki, who appeared as a substitute for Southampton.

Entities

Michael Skubala · Reo Hatate · Burnley · Millwall FC · Bristol City

Timeline

  1. 19 days ago

    [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Japanese players shine in English Championship action

    Japanese players Yu Hirakawa and Reo Hatate featured in the Championship, with Hirakawa scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner for Bristol City against Burnley.

  2. about 1 month ago

    [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Yuyu Hirakawa available for Bristol City Championship opener

    Japanese forward Yuyu Hirakawa is available for selection for Bristol City's EFL Championship opener against Millwall following a recovery from injury.

Sources

footballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp