Naohiro Takahara: an international figure of Japanese football

Naohiro Takahara, born on June 4, 1979 in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, is a former Japanese soccer player who developed a successful career both in his native country and internationally. With a career that spanned several leagues in Japan, Argentina, Germany and South Korea, Takahara was not only notable for his ability as a striker, but also for his contribution to the development of football in his country through the founding of the club Okinawa SV in 2015.

Takahara’s football career began in 1998 with Júbilo Iwata, where he quickly attracted attention thanks to his skill, after scoring 32 goals in just 78 games.

His excellent performance led him to be transferred to the Argentine club Boca Juniors in 2001. Thus, he became the second Japanese to play in Argentine football, and the first in the First Division. Despite the high expectations that accompanied him, his time at Boca was brief and complicated, playing only seven games and scoring one goal. His debut in the Argentine league is especially remembered for his goal in a resounding victory over Lanús (6-1), on September 23, 2001. However, the lack of continuity and differences in playing style made it difficult for him to find his place on the team.

After his time at Boca Juniors, the outstanding athlete returned to Júbilo Iwata. There he managed to shine again, becoming the top scorer and best player in the J1 League.

His career took a new turn when he signed a contract with Hamburg SV in Germany, becoming the third Japanese to play in the Bundesliga. His time in Europe continued at Eintracht Frankfurt, where he continued to accumulate goals and experience at a high competitive level.

In 2008 the Japanese player returned to Japan, this time with the Urawa Red Diamonds, although he also had a brief spell with the Suwon Bluewings of South Korea.

Naohiro Takahara’s mark on Japanese football

Takahara’s football career was notable for his versatility and ability to adapt to very diverse playing styles and football cultures. This, in turn, allowed him to leave a personal mark on each of the clubs he played for.

In 2015, he took a step towards the future of Japanese football by founding Okinawa SV. This club is important since it was not simply a new sporting project, but it became a platform to train new talents in Japanese football.

Contributions to the National Team

In addition to his club career, Takahara also played an important role in the Japan national team. It debuted in 2000 and participated in key moments such as the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and the Asian Cup, where Japan was crowned champion.

Although his run to the 2002 FIFA World Cup was interrupted by health problems, he returned in time to play in the 2003 Confederations Cup and the 2006 World Cup.