Junichi Inamoto, a trailblazer for Japanese football, has announced his retirement at the age of 45, bringing an end to a remarkable career that saw him become the first Japanese player to compete in the Premier League. Inamoto made his first move to England in 2001 when he joined Arsenal.
However, it wasn’t until a year later, after transferring to Fulham, that he made his Premier League debut. He also went on to play for West Bromwich Albion during his time in England.
Inamoto became a national hero during the 2002 World Cup, held in Japan and South Korea, where he scored twice, including the winning goal against Russia.
This marked Japan’s first-ever victory in a World Cup, cementing Inamoto’s place in the hearts of football fans.
He went on to have a successful career abroad, playing in Turkey, Germany, and France, before returning to Japan in 2010.
Inamoto’s final playing years were spent at Nankatsu SC, a fifth-tier Japanese club owned by the creator of the famous anime Captain Tsubasa. Reflecting on his journey, Inamoto acknowledged the contrasts between his time at top European clubs like Arsenal and his later years at Nankatsu SC, yet emphasized the constant love for the sport.
“Of course, the environments at Arsenal and Nankatsu SC are vastly different, but the essence of football remains the same — it’s all about the ball,” said Inamoto, who earned 82 caps and represented Japan in three World Cups.
Though he had limited appearances at Arsenal, his exceptional performances at the 2002 World Cup were a turning point in his career. His goals for Japan earned him the opportunity to play in the Premier League, where he made his mark, particularly with Fulham.
“I was already at Arsenal by then, but those goals had a huge impact and helped launch my name worldwide,” Inamoto recalled.
His retirement marks the end of an era for Japanese football, as Inamoto’s pioneering career has inspired countless players and fans both in Japan and beyond.
