Takumi Minamino

Lore & Background

Minamino began his club career at J.League Division 1 club Cerezo Osaka in 2012, and in his first season he was named the J.League Best Young Player. In 2014, he moved to Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg with whom he spent four seasons. Following impressive displays for the club, he joined Liverpool on 1 January 2020, winning the 2019–20 Premier League in his first season. Making his senior international debut for Japan in 2015, Minamino featured in the team that reached the final of the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, also playing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and 2023 AFC Asian Cup.

In Their Own Story

The stadium roared as Minamino received the ball just outside the box, his eyes scanning the defense like a predator. With a swift feint, he slipped past a defender and curled a shot into the far corner, the net rippling as the crowd erupted. It was a moment that defined his career—a player who thrived under pressure, always finding a way to make an impact for his country, whether by scoring, assisting, or forcing an error that changed the game's course.

Reader's Guide

Minamino was born in Izumisano, Osaka Prefecture. He played for local club Sessel Kumatori in elementary school. He attended Osaka-Kokoku High School, where he became classmates with Kyōgo Furuhashi. He joined Cerezo Osaka's youth team at age 12 and progressed through the academy. He made his first-team debut for Cerezo Osaka on November 17, 2012, and scored his first goal for the club on December 15, 2012. He won the 2013 J.League Best Young Player award. He transferred to Red Bull Salzburg on 7 January 2015.

Did You Know?

• Minamino was inspired by Brazilian striker Ronaldo's finishing and dribbling.
• He was the top scorer of the 2009 Japan U15 Club Youth Soccer Championship Tournament with eight goals.
• Minamino scored a 20-yard piledriver against Manchester United in a 2013 friendly.
• He was the first player from Cerezo Osaka's youth system to play in the opening game of the season in 2013.