Scouting
Dynamic Wingback - Sota Miura
Introduction
Japanese players moving to Europe are on the rise. While names like Mitoma, Tanaka, and Doan are well known, we are now seeing a wave of players moving at younger ages, following the path of talents like Keisuke Goto.
Yet, even with more eyes on the Japanese domestic market, there is still a deep reservoir of potential.
This post analyzes the dynamic wingbacks who have caught my eye.
I examine them through the lens of a scout, placing emphasis not just on the underlying stats, but on the traits you can only identify by watching them in real life.
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Analysis
Name: Sota Miura
Age: 25
Dominant Foot: Left
Team: Kawasaki Frontale
​​​A dynamic, attack-first left back with arguably the best delivery in the J1 League. Naturally left-footed with searing pace, he thrives in the final third—a classic fit for the Kawasaki production line of overlapping fullbacks (echoing the likes of Noborizato and Yamane).
However, injuries cut short another impressive campaign this season. His durability remains the primary red flag, specifically regarding whether he can handle the physical rigours of the European game
Key Strengths
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Creative Output:
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Crossing and Delivery : Miuras biggest selling point is his final ball. He consistently spots runners in the box and executes cut-backs with high precision.
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Chance Creation: On set pieces and constantly produces excellent swing ball into danger zone. In 2025 created 33 goal scoring chances and 6 assists from 23 games.
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Ball Progression:​​ Is elite level at carrying the ball into the final third and and long balls. From watching him, the carrying speed is key for counter attack style of Kawasaki and his vision opens up spaces if he chooses to shift wing
Data
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In the J1 last season was in the top 10% for his crosses, long passing and progressive carries.
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Despite his relatively short height, a v decent aerial duel win and defensive duel win %
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Highest top speed for a defender in the league at 35.2 KM/H. Suits attacking play. Concern is lack of interception's/covering the defense with this asset
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In 2024, had a similarly prolific season in attack. In particular was the highest ranked defender in getting into the final third and producing key passes
Weaknesses/Concerns
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In the last two seasons has been out for long periods with injuries
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Physically is smaller, unclear the situation vs a physical forward.
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From watching Sota, I have found himself impose himself well physically. Kawasaki have face lots of tough oppenents in the Asian Champions League and he has been fine. My main critique has been with Kawasaki managing his minutes. He has been overworked early in the season and used lots due to the local of cover inside the squad.​​
Potential Desitnation
Given Sotas elite crossing volume, high progressive carrying stats, but lingering questions over 1v1 defensive physicality—the Dutch Eredivisie is the undisputed best fit for his next step.
The Dutch league is technically open and tactically favors full-backs who operate as secondary wingers, which would maximize his attacking prowess.
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AZ Alkmaar: The ideal landing spot. AZ has a proven track record with Japanese full-backs (following the success of Yukinari Sugawara) and plays a possession-heavy system that isolates full-backs in the final third. Miura’s ability to "carry" the ball 30+ yards matches their tactical requirements perfectly.
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NEC Nijmegen: A strong alternative. The club has become a hub for Japanese talent (e.g., Koki Ogawa, Shiogai and Sano), which would ease his cultural adaptation. Pairing Miura’s whipped crosses with Ogawa’s aerial ability would be a simple, effective tactical blueprint.
Alternatively, the Belgium, Bundesliga 2 and Swiss leagues are decent options for Sota.
He is for me definitely ready for a move and is heading into his peak years.
Also hopefully Kawasaki are able to get a decent paycheck from him and have learnt their lesson from selling some guys a little cheap!​​​