This article highlights seven prominent Asian footballers to watch during the 2021-2022 European football season. Each player’s background, current club, and notable achievements are discussed, emphasizing their growing influence in the sport. Featured players include Son Heung-min, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Takefusa Kubo, Lee Kang-in, Takumi Minamino, Maya Yoshida, and Hwang Hee-chan.
7 Top Asian Footballers to Watch in Europe in 2021
As the 2021-2022 football season unfolds, Asian footballers are making waves in Europe’s major leagues. With exceptional skills and significant cultural influence, these players are pivotal in shaping the game. Here’s a rundown of seven stars to keep an eye on this season.
1. Son Heung-min
Position: Forward
DOB: July 8, 1992
Nationality: South Korean
Current Club: Tottenham Hotspur, UK
Son Heung-min is integral to Tottenham’s lineup. Since joining from Hamburger SV in 2015 for a record fee, he has scored 72 goals in over 200 matches. His achievements include World Cup appearances and winning the Asian Cup with South Korea. Son is also a prominent brand ambassador in Asia.
2. Takehiro Tomiyasu
Position: Centre Back / Right Back
DOB: November 5, 1998
Nationality: Japanese
Current Club: Arsenal, UK
Tomiyasu recently transferred to Arsenal from Bologna. At just 22, he aims to strengthen a faltering defense. With 23 international caps under his belt since 2018, his performance will be crucial for Arsenal’s resurgence in the league.
3. Takefusa Kubo
Position: Right Winger
DOB: June 4, 2001
Nationality: Japanese
Current Club: RDC Mallorca, Spain (on loan from Real Madrid)
Young talent Kubo is on loan at Mallorca after stints at Getafe and the Tokyo Olympics. He has been an asset on the field since his youth, debuting for Japan’s senior team in 2019. His development continues to gain attention.
4. Lee Kang-in
Position: Attacking Midfielder
DOB: February 19, 2001
Nationality: South Korean
Current Club: RDC Mallorca, Spain
Lee made a significant move from Valencia to Mallorca, showcasing his skills at a young age. He has over fifty appearances for Valencia and is a notable figure in the South Korean national squad, contributing to their Olympic efforts.
5. Takumi Minamino
Position: Attacking Midfielder
DOB: January 16, 1995
Nationality: Japanese
Current Club: Liverpool FC, UK
Minamino transitioned from Red Bull Salzburg to Liverpool, making history as their first Japanese player. He won a league title in his first season and is a key member of Japan’s national team, aiming to build on his previous successes.
6. Maya Yoshida
Position: Centre Back
DOB: August 24, 1988
Nationality: Japanese
Current Club: Sampdoria, Italy
Yoshida, who captained Japan at international tournaments, joined Sampdoria from Southampton, where he was a fan favorite. His extensive experience includes over 100 international caps, reinforcing his defensive prowess in Italy.
7. Hwang Hee-chan
Position: Forward
DOB: January 26, 1996
Nationality: South Korean
Current Club: Wolverhampton Wanderers, UK (on loan from RB Leipzig)
Known as “The Bull,” Hwang impresses with his dynamic playing style. He has moved from Austrian football to the Premier League, regularly contributing to South Korea’s national team efforts, including appearances in the World Cup.
Original Source: www.tatlerasia.com
