Kota Mizumuma has made a significant impact at the Newcastle Jets, bringing not just skill but an infectious enthusiasm. The Japanese international shares with aleagues.com.au his journey from Yokohama F. Marinos to the Isuzu UTE A-League.
If Kota Mizumuma had it his way, he would have joined the Isuzu UTE A-League long before now.
Since arriving at Newcastle Jets in January following his stint at Yokohama F. Marinos, Mizumuma has been a standout performer. His prior connection with Australian coach Ross Aloisi could have seen him opt for Brisbane Roar ahead of the 2023-24 season.
Aloisi had just taken over at Roar after working with Mizumuma during his time on Kevin Muscat’s coaching staff at Yokohama.
Despite this potential move, it didn’t come to fruition, allowing the Japanese talent to pursue a “massive dream” in the Hunter region.
“I always wanted to play abroad,” Mizumuma expressed to aleagues.com.au when discussing his choice to leave Japan for Australia. “I’ve had my fill of the J.League, and I won all the titles there. Australia was the next destination for me.”
“A few years back, Ross offered me a chance, but it didn’t come through.”
“I spent five years with Marinos and I had Australian coaches there; that was a huge factor. I was keen to experience playing in Australia.”
“When the Jets made me an official offer, I took just one or two days to decide to join an Australian team, and that’s how I ended up here.”
Bringing Mizumuma to the Isuzu UTE A-League was a significant coup for the Jets.
At 35, this is the first time the midfielder is playing outside of Japan. His arrival comes with an impressive resume, having previously played under Ange Postecoglou at Yokohama F. Marinos and clinching the J1 League title in 2022 with Kevin Muscat at the helm.
He has already made a transformative impact at Newcastle, helping propel the team into a strong position for finals contention, with the club seeking to achieve four successive league wins for the first time since 2009.
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Making the decision to leave his childhood club, Marinos, was not an easy task for Mizumuma. This was a club where his father, Takashi, had both played and coached.
After progressing through the Marinos youth academy, he made his debut in 2008, accumulating 41 appearances until 2010. He returned in 2020, contributing 119 further games while helping to secure his first J1 League title and a Super Cup victory.
Mizumuma had a brief interaction with Postecoglou before the coach’s subsequent move to Celtic in 2021.
“He is one of the most effective managers I’ve ever worked with,” said the former FC Tokyo and Cerezo Osaka player.
“He’s quiet in training but knows how to motivate players as the game approaches. He’s always maintained his philosophy and belief in his playing style, and that’s why he’s one of football’s top managers today.”
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Mizumuma experienced a career peak under Muscat, leading to his selection in the J.League Best XI after clinching the 2022 J1 League title.
“He placed immense faith in my abilities, making him one of my best coaches,” Mizumuma noted.
“Choosing to leave wasn’t straightforward, but my dream to play abroad was strong, and when the opportunity arose, it became my top priority,” expressed Mizumuma.
“Having grown up at Marinos, I received tremendous support from everyone associated with the club. When I informed them of the offer, everyone encouraged me to pursue my dream, and I’m thankful for their support, including my family.”
“Even though it was a difficult decision, the encouragement from those around me allowed me to make a hasty choice.”
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Prior to his move, Mizumuma had a chat with former Melbourne Victory manager and now Marinos assistant, Patrick Kisnorbo, about what to expect at the Jets.
“He explained, ‘Newcastle is wonderful. The city, football team, and fans are fantastic. I believe you will enjoy your time there’,” Mizumuma recalled, mentioning other good wishes from Muscat and Shaun Ontong, who has taken on a coaching role at Jubilo Iwata.
Mizumuma is amongst a growing presence of Japanese footballers in the A-League.
The potential for investment in the Japanese market is high, with many fans voicing their desire to see more players from Japan in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
This season has welcomed an influx of Japanese talent to the A-Leagues, with notable figures like Hiroki Sakai, a Samurai Blue legend, joining ten former J.League players this season.
In a recent conversation with aleagues.com.au, Mitch Langerak, goalkeeper for Melbourne Victory and Nagoya Grampus stalwart, mentioned that many players are eager to make the jump to Australia, noting the high level of inquiries he’s received.
“Japanese players are inclined to come to Australia because we are starting to see results here, especially with Hiroki’s success since arriving at Auckland FC,” Mizumuma stated.
“Auckland FC is currently at the top of the table, which showcases positive outcomes.”
“The perception of A-League teams recruiting Japanese talent is changing, and I think it’s largely about timing.”
“I’ve always wanted to move to the A-League; it just didn’t align before now. This is the first official offer that I’ve received.”
“Now, Japanese players feel there’s an opportunity in Australia, and there’s a growing interest from A-League teams in recruiting us.”
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Are some of Mizumuma’s former teammates at Marinos considering a move to the A-League?
“It’s not just Marinos players; there is a wave of interest from all across Japan. It feels like they are recognising that they have a chance to play in the A-League,” he replied.
“It’s all about timing, and the value of the A-League is being recognised right now.”
Mizumuma’s transition to Newcastle has not gone unnoticed back in Japan, especially given that the Jets remain unbeaten since his debut, with him contributing three assists and even netting his first goal in the A-League.
His vibrant personality has galvanised both players and fans at McDonald Jones Stadium, where supporters have enjoyed both his performances on the pitch and his interactive approach off it.
Mizumuma frequently engages with fans post-match, signing autographs and taking photos.
“For me, this is just how I am,” he shared. “It feels natural to appreciate the fans who come to support us.”
“Fans invest their time and money to be here. Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to play.”
“The stadium’s atmosphere is fantastic, and the fans have been incredibly welcoming. I want to fill that stadium with supporters; that’s my aspiration.”
“I aim to keep them engaged and happy with our team. I want to express my gratitude to the fans after every match.”
He concluded, “I genuinely love playing in Australia. Each day, I’m committed to giving my all. I hope to stay here for as long as I can.”
“My goal is to reach the finals alongside my teammates, the fans, and supporters, giving my best every single day.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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