Lucas Fernandes Breaks J.League Assist Record as Cerezo Osaka Rise Again

New single-season milestone achieved

Lucas Fernandes has officially rewritten the J.League record books. With two assists in Cerezo Osaka’s 2–1 win over Tokyo Verdy on June 21, the Brazilian playmaker reached 14 assists in just 22 appearances this season—surpassing the J1 League’s previous single-season best since 2018.

The previous benchmark was set by Yosuke Kashiwagi, who tallied 13 assists for Urawa Reds in 2018. Fernandes has eclipsed that figure with nearly a third of the season still remaining, setting a new standard for creativity and efficiency from wide areas.

J.League's assist records

While official J.League statistics from earlier eras remain less consistent, since 2015, only a handful of players have reached double-digit assists in a single season. Fernandes now leads that group, outpacing notable creators like Yasushi Endo (12 in 2015), Leandro Domingues, and Kashiwagi. His current rate of 0.64 assists per game makes him a statistical outlier in modern J.League history.

Who is Lucas Fernandes?

Fernandes, 26, joined Cerezo Osaka ahead of the 2024 season after five strong years with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo. A product of Brazil’s Botafogo-SP and São Paulo FC, he brings a unique combination of Brazilian flair and Japanese league experience.

Operating primarily from the right flank, Fernandes is not a traditional winger. He is a creator first, known for his curling crosses, deceptive movement, and vision in the final third. His combination play—especially with forwards like Ratao and Tiago Andrade—has become Cerezo’s most reliable attacking weapon.

In terms of profile, he is a rare commodity in the J.League: a high-volume chance creator who leads the league in key passes, expected assists, and successful crosses per match.

Cerezo Osaka’s season shaped by Fernandes

As of Matchweek 21, Cerezo Osaka sit eighth in the J1 League table with 34 goals scored—the most in the division. Much of this attacking output is directly linked to Fernandes’s form. His partnership with the likes of Ratao, Capixaba, and Nakamura has lifted Cerezo from a mid-table side to a team capable of challenging for continental qualification.

The club's recent run—three wins in four games—has coincided with Fernandes hitting peak form. His set-piece delivery, decision-making under pressure, and ability to create from wide positions have made him indispensable in manager Akio Kogiku’s system.

What's next for Lucas and Cerezo?

With 12 matches remaining, Fernandes is on pace to reach 18–20 assists—potentially putting him in a class of his own in J.League history. If his teammates maintain current scoring efficiency, and if Cerezo’s defence continues to stabilise, the Osaka-based club could mount a serious challenge for a top-four finish.

The upcoming Osaka Derby on July 5 will be a major litmus test. It will not only be a battle for local pride, but also a crucial fixture in determining whether Cerezo can convert momentum into a sustained league run.

Lucas Fernandes is more than just a standout performer—he is redefining the creative ceiling in Japanese football. With a new assist record already under his belt and Cerezo’s attack firing on all cylinders, the stage is set for an historic second half of the season. The Brazilian’s left foot could yet prove to be the most decisive weapon in the J.League title and top-four race.