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January 11, 2024

Samurai Blue Focus: Mao Hosoya at the Asian Cup – J League

Credits to J League Image Gallery

The Japan national team is built on a solid foundation provided by the J.League. It has played a pivotal role in nurturing and developing all players to represent the Samurai Blue. Each of the 26 athletes chosen for the AFC Asian Cup has honed their skills and gained invaluable experience through J.League clubs. Notably, while 21 of these players have taken the leap to play abroad, joining some of the most prestigious teams in the world, five continue to showcase their talents within the domestic league, contributing to its growth and competitiveness. This blend of homegrown talent and international experience underscores the strength and depth of the Japanese footballing system.

Few players exemplify the promise and talent that Kashiwa Reysol standout Mao Hosoya brings to the pitch. At just 22 years old, he has already established himself as a pivotal figure for his club, showcasing a remarkable ability to influence games with his skill and determination. Hosoya’s journey in football has been characterized by consistent growth, and he has quickly become one of the most exciting prospects in Japanese football. His dynamic playing style and impressive goal-scoring record signal a bright future, making him a player to watch as he continues to develop his craft in the J.League and beyond.

Since his teenage years, Mao Hosoya has been a vital presence for Kashiwa Reysol, becoming an integral part of the team’s dynamics and success. Now, at just 22, he has solidified his role and emerged as the team’s standout player, consistently making impactful contributions on the field. Over the past two seasons, Hosoya has consistently topped the club’s scoring charts, demonstrating his knack for finding the back of the net and showcasing his remarkable skills as a striker. His performances have been instrumental in keeping the club competitive in the top flight, making him a player of significant promise for both club and country.

It is fair to assert that Mao Hosoya played a pivotal role in ensuring Kashiwa Reysol’s place in the top division of Japanese football. His scoring ability has been a game-changer for the team, as he netted 14 of the club’s 33 goals last season. This remarkable contribution came at a crucial time, particularly during a tense stretch where every point mattered. In the final six matches of the season, Hosoya found the back of the net four times, showcasing his talent and composure under pressure. His goals were instrumental in helping the club narrowly escape relegation as they fought to secure their spot in the top flight. Hosoya’s consistent performance solidified his status as a critical player for Reysol and highlighted his potential to impact games at the highest level.

Hosoya is a formidable athlete, capable of outpacing defenders and overpowering backlines with impressive strength. His physicality allows him to dominate in one-on-one situations, making it difficult for opponents to contain him. You have a striker who can genuinely excel when you add his intelligent movement off the ball, enabling him to find space, create scoring opportunities, and have precise finishing skills.

Given his undeniable talent and track record, manager Hajime Moriyasu made selecting Hosoya for the national team a straightforward decision. Hosoya debuted with the Samurai Blue in 2022 and netted his first goal for the national squad in 2023.

Hosoya is now poised to debut in a major tournament, and it would not be surprising if the Asian Cup becomes the stage where he cements his position as Japan’s primary striker—a role he could potentially hold for years. His career is just beginning, and he has already emerged as a standout player for his club. Now, he faces a significant opportunity to shine on the continental stage at the Asian Cup.

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