Full Breakdown
Japan Football Association Considers Extending Hajime Moriyasu’s Tenure After World Cup Exit
7/2/2026, 8:42:51 AM
Core Decision: JFA Signals Intent to Retain Moriyasu
JFA President Tsuneyasu Miyamoto told reporters that while no formal decision has been taken, the association is preparing to keep Hajime Moriyasu as head coach. The comment followed a meeting in which many participants gave positive feedback on Japan’s performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team is scheduled to return to Japan on Thursday, after which Moriyasu will hold a news conference summarising the campaign. The Wednesday meeting yielded mostly positive comments on the team’s tactical execution.
Background: Moriyasu’s Tenure and Prior World Cups
Hajime Moriyasu, 57, assumed the role of Japan’s national team manager after the 2018 World Cup in Russia. He guided the Samurai Blue to the knockout stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where the side lost to Croatia on penalties. Moriyasu also led the team at the 2026 tournament in the United States, marking his third consecutive World Cup appearance as head coach. Japan has progressed globally for two decades but lacks a knockout-stage win.
2026 World Cup Performance: Group Stage to Round of 32
In the 2026 edition, Japan was drawn in Group F with Indonesia, Qatar and Thailand. The team finished second in the group, recording one win and two draws. The win was over Indonesia; draws vs Qatar, Thailand. In the round of 32, Japan faced five-time champion Brazil in Houston and lost 2-1, ending the campaign without achieving the nation’s first knockout-stage victory.
Official Statements & Responses
President Miyamoto indicated that the JFA is preparing to retain Moriyasu, reflecting the generally positive assessment expressed by meeting participants. No formal contract extension has been announced, and the association has not detailed any specific terms. Kyodo reported Miyamoto’s comment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We would have to make preparations to that end.” — Tsuneyasu Miyamoto, President, Japan Football Association
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Domestic media reports suggest the JFA may offer Moriyasu a one-year extension to cover the upcoming Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for early next year. The association has not confirmed any extension, and no official contract details have been released. The lack of a formal decision creates uncertainty about the coach’s future beyond the forthcoming press conference. The Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia will see Japan as a title contender.
What’s Next: Press Conference and Asian Cup Outlook
Moriyasu is expected to address the media on Thursday, reviewing the World Cup run and outlining plans for the national team. The Samurai Blue will then prepare for the Asian Cup, where Japan is regarded as a favorite to contend for the title. Moriyasu will also outline objectives for the Asian Cup. The outcome of the press conference and any subsequent JFA announcement will determine whether Moriyasu continues as head coach.
