With 14 Changes, Moriyasu's Experimental Japan Sends Shockwaves Through Asia

With World Cup qualification already secured, Japan have opted for revolution over repetition in their squad selection for June’s final two AFC qualifiers — a decision that is echoing far beyond their own touchline. While for Hajime Moriyasu it’s a calculated risk with an eye on the future, for rivals like China and Indonesia, it could prove decisive in their desperate fight for survival.

A Squad Rebuilt: Youth, Controversy, and Opportunity

The 27-man squad named by Moriyasu for the clashes against Australia (June 5, away) and Indonesia (June 10, home) features a staggering 14 changes from March. Seven players have been called up to the senior national team for the first time, and no fewer than 11 have fewer than 10 caps. It’s a strategic move, framed as a “prelude to North America 2026,” where squad depth and versatility will be crucial.

Among the headline names is Kaishu Sano, who returns to the squad almost a year after his arrest on sexual assault charges — a case that was later dropped without indictment. The 24-year-old Mainz midfielder has been imperious in the Bundesliga, and both national team director Masakuni Yamamoto and Moriyasu himself defended the call-up. “He's shown remorse and is committed to growing — both as a player and a person,” said Moriyasu, likening his decision to offering a family member a second chance.

Another intriguing addition is Shunnosuke Suzuki, a 21-year-old converted centre-back from Shonan Bellmare. Originally a holding midfielder, Suzuki has flourished on the left side of a back three, praised for his press resistance and incisive build-up play — traits that evoke comparisons to Ko Itakura, albeit with even greater attacking ambition.

And then there's Ryunosuke Sato, the 18-year-old wildcard. On loan at Fagiano Okayama from FC Tokyo, the wing-back has lit up J2 this season with his direct dribbling and fearless decision-making. With three goals and an assist already, his rapid rise has impressed not just Moriyasu but a full cadre of national team staff who took turns scouting his matches before the call-up.

A Team in Transition — or a Risk to Reputation?

While Moriyasu maintains his side will remain committed to winning, the optics of resting many core players — including Taniguchi, Itakura, and Kamada — has triggered concern in Jakarta and hope in Beijing.

Indonesian head coach Patrick Kluivert, whose side currently sits fourth in Group C, expressed surprise: “I don’t know what the Japanese coach is thinking, but we are preparing our best team to get all six points.” For Indonesia, who host China before their trip to Japan, anything less could be fatal.

Meanwhile, China — bottom of the group and banking on a favour from the Samurai Blue — is watching closely. Media outlets like Sohu have both applauded and fretted over Japan’s selection. “It may be their second team,” the outlet noted, “but even Japan’s reserves have players in top European leagues. They will fight hard for their future.”

The stakes are clear: should Japan stumble in Australia, they may face pressure to reassert themselves at home against Indonesia — especially if they wish to maintain their status as Asia’s top footballing power ahead of Iran and South Korea.

An Unintended Power Play

Moriyasu’s blend of continuity and change — retaining leaders like Wataru Endo, Takefusa Kubo, and Yuto Nagatomo — appears designed to maintain tactical cohesion while offering newcomers a stage. “You can’t just test rookies in isolation,” said Moriyasu, “you need veterans around them to gauge their true level.”

But this test of depth may become a continental kingmaker. With China praying for Japan’s ruthlessness and Indonesia demanding respect, Moriyasu’s experimental squad suddenly carries far more weight than their “dead rubber” fixtures suggest.

Whether these young hopefuls can carry the burden of two nations’ fates — and live up to the standards set by their seniors — remains to be seen. What’s clear, however, is that Japan's evolution is underway, and the ripple effects are being felt all across Asia.