Celtic legend Nakamura joins Japan's World Cup coaching staff

Shunsuke Nakamura will form part of Japan’s coaching staff at the upcoming World Cup, marking a new chapter for the former midfield maestro renowned for his free‑kick brilliance. The Japan Football Association confirmed that the 47‑year‑old will join Hajime Moriyasu’s backroom team as the national side prepare to face the Netherlands, Tunisia and Sweden in Group F.

Nakamura admitted he initially hesitated, aware of the impact his arrival might have so close to the tournament, but said Moriyasu’s encouragement convinced him to accept. A veteran of the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, Nakamura earned ninety‑eight caps and scored twenty‑four goals for Japan. His club career included a celebrated spell at Celtic, where he won three league titles after joining from Reggina in 2005. Since retiring in 2022, he has served as assistant coach at Yokohama FC. Nakamura said he is committed to supporting the squad’s vision and helping Japan compete at the highest level.