Minami: It’s great to see big Japanese influence in the WSL

Main Club Sponsor

TICKETS

SHOP

Defender one of 17 Japanese players in the WSL.

Charlie Hanson

2025-09-16T00:00+01:00

Our three Japanese players, Kiko Seike, Fuka Tsunoda and Moeka Minami. 📷 by Kyle Hemsley.

Moeka Minami is delighted to see the number of Japanese players who are now turning out in the WSL.

The defender is one of 17 Japanese players in the league, with three of those a part of Dario Vidosic’s squad – Kiko Seike and Fuka Tsunoda are Moeka’s teammates.

But what does the 26-year-old put the influx of Japanese talent here down to?

“Having so many Japanese players here also makes it easier for younger players to take the leap abroad. That kind of environment can really help raise the level of Japanese women’s football as a whole," she said.

Moeka Minami joined Albion after three years in Italy with Roma. 📷 by Kyle Hemsley.

“I think it’s important that more players challenge themselves overseas—whether in England, America, or elsewhere.

“It’s the result of those who came before us. Their performances created demand, and clubs realised Japanese players can really help their teams.

“Of course, players want to go abroad, but in reality, it’s about receiving an offer. The opportunities we have now are built on the success of earlier players.

“That’s why it’s so important for us to keep performing, to maintain and grow that value for the next generation.”

Moeka revealed that Kiko Seike and her have got that extra bit of motivation when they face a fellow Japanese player.

“We will play against another Japanese player almost every match! I was just talking with Seike about it, we’re always running into each other.

“It motivates us, because we don’t want to lose to other Japanese players. It creates a really positive effect.

Moeka Minami and Kiko Seike have both played for the Japan national team. 📷 by Paul Hazlewood.

“I also talk a lot with my teammates from other countries, but being able to share feelings in my own language adds something extra. It’s reassuring.”

Minami has been in Europe for three years now, having previously been with Roma, while Kiko Seike is in her second season with Albion.

These are, however, Tsunoda’s first weeks away from her homeland, although Moeka has been impressed by how quickly Fuka has settled in.

Moeka Minami has started both of our opening two games of the WSL season. 📷by Kyle Hemsley.

“Both Kiko and I had played with her before, so she already knew us. We just told her she could feel safe coming here, that we’d support her with whatever she needed and that the most important thing is to settle in without stress. We’re trying to help her adjust step by step while also pushing together for the team.

“Fuka’s quite independent and steady, and the team really welcomed her. Technically, she showed her quality right from the first training session and the players noticed that. That makes it easier to integrate. I think she’s had a really good start.”