This article profiles seven influential Asian footballers to watch in Europe’s domestic leagues during the 2021-2022 season, including their positions, clubs, and notable achievements. Players featured include Son Heung-min, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Takefusa Kubo, Lee Kang-in, Takumi Minamino, Maya Yoshida, and Hwang Hee-chan, all of whom are poised for significant impacts in their teams.
The summer sports season brings attention to top Asian footballers primed for success in Europe’s domestic leagues. These athletes not only showcase exceptional talent but also enjoy lucrative endorsements and significant social media influence, signaling their growing impact on the sport. This article highlights seven influential Asian players to watch during the 2021-2022 European football season, detailing their clubs and careers.
1. Son Heung-min
Position: Forward
Born: July 8, 1992, South Korea
Current Club: Tottenham Hotspur, UK
Son Heung-min is a key player at Tottenham, having joined them for a record fee in 2015. He has scored 72 goals in 200 appearances and significantly contributes to the South Korean national team’s successes in World Cups and the Asian Cup. In addition to his on-field prowess, Son’s off-field appeal has grown, aided by numerous brand endorsements.
2. Takehiro Tomiyasu
Position: Centre Back/Right Back
Born: November 5, 1998, Japan
Current Club: Arsenal, UK
At just 22, Tomiyasu joined Arsenal at the end of the summer transfer window, aiming to improve the team’s defense after a poor start to the Premier League season. His experience includes 23 caps for the national team since 2018, and he was signed for £16m from Bologna.
3. Takefusa Kubo
Position: Right Winger
Born: June 4, 2001, Japan
Current Club: RCD Mallorca, Spain (on loan from Real Madrid)
Takefusa Kubo has quickly become a notable player on loan at RCD Mallorca after previous stints at Getafe and scoring for Japan at the Tokyo Olympics. Aged just 20, he has been involved in the national youth teams since age 14, marking his senior debut in 2019.
4. Lee Kang-in
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Born: February 19, 2001, South Korea
Current Club: RCD Mallorca, Spain
Lee Kang-in moved to Spain’s Valencia at a young age, where he showcased his talent before transferring to RCD Mallorca. He has made significant contributions to the national team and represented South Korea at the Tokyo Olympics, establishing himself as a promising midfielder.
5. Takumi Minamino
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Born: January 16, 1995, Japan
Current Club: Liverpool FC, UK
Minamino transferred to Liverpool from Salzburg, where he enjoyed success. His career highlights include a league winners medal and becoming Liverpool’s first Japanese signing. He has been vital for Japan, including scoring in the 2019 Asian Cup final.
6. Maya Yoshida
Position: Centre Back
Born: August 24, 1988, Japan
Current Club: Sampdoria, Italy
After a successful tenure at Southampton, where he became a fan favorite, Yoshida is now at Sampdoria. He has over 100 international caps and captained Japan during pivotal tournaments, including the 2018 World Cup and 2019 Asian Cup.
7. Hwang Hee-chan
Position: Forward
Born: January 26, 1996, South Korea
Current Club: Wolverhampton Wanderers, UK (on loan from RB Leipzig)
Known for his aggressive playing style, Hwang Hee-chan transitioned from South Korea to Europe at a young age. He is currently on loan to Wolverhampton and has established his place in the South Korean national team, competing in the 2018 World Cup.
These seven talented Asian footballers are not only making their mark in Europe’s top leagues but are also enhancing the visibility of Asian athletes in world football. Their careers highlight the growing impact of Asian players in the sport and the increasing interest in international football. As they take the field in the 2021-2022 season, fans and analysts will be keeping a close watch on their performances and contributions to their respective teams.
Original Source: www.tatlerasia.com
