Football is indeed a beautiful game because it is global. It doesn’t matter where you came from, because if you’re good enough, there will be teams who will be willing to bring you in.
Over the years, we have seen the rise of Asian footballers from all over the world, particularly in Europe’s top five leagues. Not only do they make it to the roster, but they’re starring for their clubs as well.
Japanese and South Koreans are well represented, which is a testament to how great they are at football. And that’s why it’s no wonder they have almost always competed in the World Cup.
Read more below as SBOTOP lists down the Asian stars who are taking the football world by storm.
Son Heung-Min, Tottenham
The obvious name on this list is Son Heung-Min, who has been Tottenham’s talisman for quite some time now.
For the eighth consecutive Premier League season, Son has reached double digits in goals after scoring a penalty against Newcastle United on Monday, and he also recorded his fourth assist that led to Destiny Udogie’s first-ever Spurs goal.
With 10 goals (and counting), Son sits third in the Premier League Golden Boot race this term, with Erling Haaland (14) and Mohamed Salah (11) standing above him.
Prior to this season, many wondered how Son would fare as Tottenham’s new captain after Harry Kane left for Bayern Munich. But fast forward to today, and it’s safe to say that he has passed the test with flying colors.
Hwang Hee-Chan, Wolves
Earlier this season, the Wolves were seemingly destined for the drop because they were in disarray internally. However, they appear safe from relegation for now because they’re in 13th place, and Hwang Hee-Chan is a major reason why.
The “Korean guy” definitely deserves respect, which is why Hwang is poised to sign a new extension with the Wolves soon. As of this writing, Hwang Hee-Chan’s current deal runs out in 2026.
Hwang has come a long way since he already surpassed his meagre three-goal output last season because he now leads the Wolves in scoring with nine goals.
A physical and aggressive presence up front, Hwang Hee-Chan is nicknamed “Hwangso”, which means bull in South Korea.
Kaoru Mitoma, Brighton
Brighton wouldn’t experience the success they’ve had in recent months if it weren’t for Kaoru Mitoma, who emerged as one of the biggest surprises in the Premier League last season after recording seven goals and four assists in 27 appearances.
Under Roberto De Zerbi’s proactive tactics, the Japanese international has particularly excelled because he has been a regular in the Football 2023 highlights reel. His high work rate is what really makes him one of the best wingers we have today in the Premier League.
This season, Mitoma has been rotated in and out of Brighton’s starting XI because they’re also competing in Europe. But that doesn’t matter because even if he plays 20 minutes or the full 90, he never fails to make a positive impact.
Kim Min-Jae, Bayern Munich
Just like in Napoli before, Kim Min-Jae has been a steadying force in Bavaria, and he might be one of the reasons why the Football 2023 odds like Bayern Munich’s chances of repeating as Bundesliga champions for the nth time.
Bayern Munich’s centre-half depth has been nicked by injuries at certain points this season, but Kim has always been there, and he gets the job done regardless of who his backline partner is.
While his uncanny ability to clear balls and intercept certain passes has always been talked about, Kim’s passing sometimes gets overlooked.
According to Football Reference, Kim is in the 99th percentile in terms of passes attempted per 90 (94.77), the 95th percentile in terms of pass completion (92-per cent) and progressive passes per 90 (5.76), making him essential whenever Bayern Munich build up play.
Lee Kang-In, PSG
Lee Kang-In has been a regular starter for Luis Enrique because he is one of the team’s most versatile players, capable of playing as their No. 10 or as a winger to support the striker.
One of his best performances this season was against Montpellier last month, where he recorded a 100-per cent passing rate, making 10 crosses and completing three of five attempted dribbles for a total of 73 possessions in 64 minutes.
Despite only recording two goals and one assist this season, Lee is now a fan favourite at Parc des Princes, to the point that he even outsold Kylian Mbappe’s uniform on the team’s online store not too long ago.
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