'Why Not Try Me?': Keisuke Honda Eyes Japan Head Coach Job, Makes Bold Proposal

Last Updated:July 02, 2026, 13:31 IST

Honda has offered to take charge of Japan's national team, saying he is ready for a one-year trial and can be sacked if Japan fail at the AFC Asian Cup.

Former Japan international Keisuke Honda has publicly expressed his interest in becoming the country’s next head coach, offering to take charge on a one-year trial following Japan’s FIFA World Cup 2026 exit.

Honda made the surprising proposal on social media after reports emerged that the Japan Football Association (JFA) intends to retain current manager Hajime Moriyasu, whose contract expires after the tournament.

“I know this might be controversial, but let me say it anyway," Honda wrote on X.

“I saw the news that they’re offering Coach Hajime Moriyasu a one-year contract extension, but if it’s just a stopgap offer because they can’t find any other candidates for the next coach, then why not try me for a year?

“If we lose the Asian Cup, you can fire me without any questions asked. I’m ready to take on that challenge."

According to Kyodo News, JFA president Tsuneyasu Miyamoto said no official decision has been made yet, but the federation plans to continue with Moriyasu despite Japan’s Round of 32 exit.

Japan impressed during the group stage, finishing runners-up in a challenging Group F with one win and two draws to qualify for the knockout rounds. However, the Samurai Blue were eliminated after Brazil came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory.

Honda’s Legacy

The 39-year-old is one of Japan’s most decorated footballers, having represented his country in three FIFA World Cups, won the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, and been named Player of the Tournament during that triumph. He earned more than 90 caps before retiring from international football following the 2018 World Cup.

Despite stepping away from the national team, Honda has continued his globe-trotting club career. Earlier this year, he signed for Singapore Premier League side FC Jurong, having previously featured for Paro FC in Bhutan during the 2024 season.

About the Author

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His...Read More

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