Japan FA President Backs Premier League for Developing Talent

Japan is looking to strengthen its pathway for developing soccer players in Europe, with England's Premier League identified as a preferred destination. Japan Football Association President Tsuneyasu Miyamoto outlined that approach to delegates at an Asian Football Confederation seminar and regional meeting in Tokyo on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

Miyamoto emphasized the importance of sending more Japanese players to European clubs, particularly those competing in England's top division. His remarks placed the Premier League at the center of Japan's ambitions to develop its players through competition abroad, according to The Associated Press report published by The Spec.

The seminar brought together officials from across Asian soccer as FIFA President Gianni Infantino traveled through the region during the week. Infantino was expected to attend the Tokyo gathering, according to reports published by The Spec and Mid Florida Newspapers.

Infantino is seeking a fourth term as head of FIFA. His leadership has faced strong opposition over a proposed World Cup sell-off plan that was subsequently scrapped, Mid Florida Newspapers reported.

The discussions took place within the Asian Football Confederation, the continental governing body that brings together soccer associations across Asia. Miyamoto's comments highlighted England as a particular focus in Japan's broader effort to place more domestic talent in European soccer.