Not just big in Japan: Zion Suzuki has what it takes to follow Emiliano Martínez
Zion Suzuki is set to become the first Japanese goalkeeper in the Premier League after signing with Aston Villa. Despite facing past challenges, including racist abuse and performance criticism, he is viewed as a capable successor to Emiliano Martínez.
Why it matters
Suzuki's move represents a significant milestone for Japanese athletes in international football and highlights the ongoing issue of discrimination in sports.
The Premier League is about to say hello to its first Japanese goalkeeper in Zion Suzuki. The Premier League is about to say hello to its first Japanese goalkeeper in Zion Suzuki. Aston Villa Not just big in Japan: Zion Suzuki has what it takes to follow Emiliano Martínez He is replacing a World Cup winner and is his country’s first Premier League keeper, but Villa’s new signing has already dealt with harder challenges
Prefer the Guardian on Google I n November 2001, the first Japanese goalkeeper to play English league football conceded a goal within the first minute of his debut. Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi may have struggled for second-tier Portsmouth, conceding 21 times in his 12 league games after being spotted by the then director of football, Harry Redknapp, but he also produced some world-class saves and had glowing things to say about the Royal Mail.
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