Japan’s head coach Hajime Moriyasu has said his next career move will be in Europe, not Malaysia, after his current contract ends in early 2027. His plans highlight the growing divide between Asian and European football.

Moriyasu’s contract with the Japan Football Association runs until 28 February 2027. He has publicly stated that he wants to work in Europe once the deal finishes, aiming to become the first Japanese manager to lead a top‑flight European club.

Representatives for Moriyasu have dismissed recent reports that the Football Association of Malaysia formally approached him for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. Even if talks began, Malaysia’s budget could not match his current earnings, which exceed 10 million ringgit (US$2.45 million) per year.

Since taking charge in 2018, Moriyasu has guided Japan to notable victories, including wins over Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. By contrast, the Malaysian national team is ranked 133rd in the FIFA rankings and has lost its 2027 Asian Cup spot after sanctions over ineligible players.

Moriyasu’s European ambition underlines the financial and competitive gap that separates Asian football from its European counterpart. His decision may encourage other Asian coaches to look beyond their home continents for new challenges.