Furuhashi’s World Cup Dreams on Hold: Rising Japanese Stars Surge Ahead
Breaking News: Former Celtic striker Kogo Furuhashi is facing increasing pressure to secure a place in Japan’s squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in North and Central America. While a return to Celtic was briefly speculated, Furuhashi remains at Birmingham City, and his recent form has sparked debate about his international future. This is a developing story with significant implications for Japan’s attacking lineup, and we’re bringing you the latest updates, optimized for Google News and SEO visibility.
Photo: Getty Images
Furuhashi’s Struggles and Moriyasu’s Past Decisions
Furuhashi’s move from Celtic to Stade Rennes in January 2025 hasn’t yielded the expected results. In 31 appearances for Rennes, he started only 9 games, netting just 2 goals in 1112 minutes of play. His current stint at Birmingham City in England’s second division hasn’t significantly improved his fortunes. This performance has led to scrutiny, with overseas media outlet “All Asian Football” suggesting that national team manager Hajime Moriyasu was prescient in not consistently calling up Furuhashi during his peak at Celtic.
The report highlights a perceived lack of impact as Furuhashi moved to higher-level leagues. Moriyasu’s decision, initially questioned by some, now appears justified given the player’s recent struggles. Understanding a manager’s selection process is crucial for fans – it’s rarely about sentiment, and almost always about demonstrable performance and tactical fit.
The Emerging Competition: Ueda, Shiogai, and Goto
While Furuhashi’s position is uncertain, several other Japanese forwards are making a compelling case for inclusion in the World Cup squad. Leading the charge is Keiyo Ueda of Feyenoord, currently the top scorer in the Dutch First Division. But the real story is the emergence of Kento Shiogai and Keisuke Goto.
Photo: Feyenoord Official Website
Kento Shiogai: The Super Sub
Shiogai, formerly a special designated player for Yokohama F. Marinos, is making waves at NEC Nijmegen (Dutch First Division). Despite primarily being a backup to teammate Koki Ogawa, he’s become known as one of Europe’s most impactful “super subs,” scoring an impressive 7 goals in just 12 games. This ability to change a game off the bench is a valuable asset for any national team.
Keisuke Goto: A Rising Star in Belgium
Keisuke Goto, a product of Jubilo Iwata’s youth system, is flourishing at STVV in the Belgian First Division. After a loan spell from Anderlecht, he’s found his footing, scoring 8 goals and providing 1 assist in 18 games this season. His rapid development is a testament to the benefits of consistent playing time and a supportive environment.
What This Means for Japan’s World Cup Squad
Brazilian journalist Thiago Bontempo believes that Ueda is a guaranteed starter. However, the competition for the remaining striker spots is fierce. Bontempo suggests that Shiogai and Goto, previously considered outside contenders, now have a legitimate chance of making the squad. At 30 years old, Furuhashi faces an increasingly difficult task to convince Moriyasu of his worth, especially given the form of these younger, more dynamic players.
The Japanese national team is undergoing a period of exciting transition, with a new generation of talent emerging. This competition for places can only benefit the team, pushing players to reach their full potential. For fans, it means a thrilling spectacle and a potentially unpredictable squad selection for the World Cup. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of Japanese football and the road to the World Cup, providing you with the latest breaking news and in-depth analysis.
For more insights into the evolving landscape of international football and the strategies behind successful team selections, explore our dedicated football section. We’re committed to delivering timely, accurate, and engaging content to keep you informed and entertained.
