Japan appoints interim football manager ahead of AFC Asian Cup

Hajime Moriyasu has been appointed as the interim manager of the Japan national football team, a role he will hold until the conclusion of the AFC Asian Cup scheduled for January and February 2026. The appointment was confirmed during a press conference held in Tokyo on July 24, 2026, and was broadcast live by NHK News Japan.

Moriyasu’s tenure is defined by its limited duration, covering approximately six months. He will oversee the national squad through the Asian Cup tournament before handing over responsibilities to the manager of the age-group national teams. This successor is currently leading the development squads targeting qualification and participation in the Los Angeles Olympics.

The structured approach to leadership transition reflects a broader strategic alignment between senior international competitions and Olympic preparation. By retaining Moriyasu for the immediate Asian Cup campaign, the football authorities aim to maintain continuity in the senior team’s performance while preparing for a seamless handover to the coach responsible for the next generation of players.

The press conference provided the official confirmation of this short-term arrangement. While the specific identity of the incoming permanent manager was not disclosed, the role is explicitly linked to the current leadership of the age-group national teams. This ensures that the tactical and developmental philosophy established during the Olympic qualification phase will be directly applied to the senior squad following the Asian Cup.

This interim arrangement concludes the current cycle of national team management. Moriyasu’s departure after the Asian Cup will mark the end of his stewardship of the senior side, allowing the new manager to implement their long-term vision for the team as it progresses toward the Los Angeles Olympics.