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European stage is witnessing Ayase Ueda’s breakthrough
In the 2025–26 season, the eyes of European football fans turned to one Japanese forward whose performance has shattered expectations. Ayase Ueda, now playing for Feyenoord in the Eredivisie, has already scored 13 goals this season, putting him atop the league’s goal-scoring chart. His rise has sent ripples across the continent — not just as a statistical leader, but as a revived striker finally delivering on his potential.
The impact is not merely about numbers. Ueda’s presence at the front gives Feyenoord a renewed sense of attacking identity. Every run, every shot, every movement off the ball carries weight. For a club with history aiming high domestically and in Europe, having a striker in form like this is more than just a tactical advantage — it is a statement.
From struggle to striker: Ueda’s journey to this season
Ueda’s path to this breakthrough has not been smooth. In the summer of 2023, he moved from Cercle Brugge to Feyenoord with high expectations. Yet the first two seasons at his new club were marred by injuries and inconsistent form. The fierce competition, physical demands of Dutch football, and the pressure to adapt weighed heavily. He often found himself on the bench or coming on as a substitute, unable to secure a spot as a reliable starter.
Many wondered if the move had been premature. Could a young Japanese forward really succeed in one of Europe’s top leagues? The answer seemed uncertain — until now. Season three brought a clear shift: fitness, confidence, and a defined role under a new tactical setup combined to unlock his true potential. The striker who once struggled to adapt has now emerged as a key asset, displaying maturity befitting his age and experience.
Van Persie’s high praise and what it means
Such transformation did not go unnoticed. Robin van Persie, the current manager of Feyenoord and a legendary forward in his own right, recently made an emphatic statement about Ueda: he matches every quality you’d expect from a great striker.
Van Persie highlighted Ueda’s powerful shooting ability and even noted that Ueda can take free kicks when needed. Those are qualities many strikers lack. More than that, van Persie pointed out Ueda’s humility and team-oriented mindset — qualities that distinguish a mere scorer from a complete forward.
Still, the manager acknowledged that there is room for growth. He suggested Ueda could improve timing for being fouled, better use his body under pressure, and show more resilience in physical duels — traits common among elite strikers across Europe. But above all, the trust van Persie places in Ueda speaks volumes. When a former world-class striker vouches for you, it carries a weight few others can match.
What makes him a complete striker now
So what changed for Ueda this season? First, his role on the pitch became crystal clear: classic center-forward, leading the line, tasked with finishing chances. That clarity seems to have given him confidence and focus. Instead of drifting wide or playing false-9 at times, he stays central, ready to strike.
Second, mental factors aligned. Ueda appears more composed and decisive in the box. His timing, positioning, and composure under pressure — essential traits for any top striker — have noticeably improved. Fans and teammates increasingly look to him in critical moments, trusting that he will deliver.
Finally, synergy with teammates and tactical setup helped. Feyenoord’s midfield and wing players now create patterns that play to Ueda’s strengths: crosses, through balls, quick link-up play inside the box. The system revolves around him, and he delivers. That alignment between individual talent and team tactics is often what differentiates good strikers from great ones.
Impact beyond the club Japan and the broader football world
Ueda’s resurgence is not just a personal success — it has broader significance. For Japanese football, his performance reinforces the idea that Japanese forwards can succeed at high levels in Europe. Young attackers at home now have a living example: with talent, perseverance, and the right environment, they too can thrive abroad.
Moreover, European clubs looking for a striker may now view Japanese players differently. Historically, midfielders or wide attackers have drawn most attention. But Ueda is shifting that narrative. If he continues to score consistently and refine his game, interest from bigger clubs or tougher leagues is likely to grow.
For the national team, his form comes at a crucial time. With upcoming international tournaments and qualifiers, having a striker in top form competing regularly in Europe strengthens Japan’s offensive options. His confidence and match sharpness could prove invaluable on the global stage.
Looking ahead: What’s next for Ueda
Despite impressive form, Ueda’s journey is not complete. Van Persie’s comments hint at areas needing refinement: physical robustness, smarter tactical fouling, improved body usage in duels. If Ueda manages to develop in these aspects, the ceiling for his career becomes very high.
Next season, or even the winter transfer window, could bring new opportunities. Continued success at Feyenoord may attract attention from clubs in bigger leagues. But whether he stays or moves, the key will be consistency. Maintaining form, handling pressure, and adapting to different defensive styles will determine if this breakout season becomes the foundation for a stellar long-term career.
In any case, Ueda has already made a bold statement: he is no longer a young hopeful but a striker proving he belongs among Europe’s best. For fans of Japanese football and beyond, his journey is one to watch.
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