Moriyasu eyes Europe as representatives deny formal Malaysia approach
The Japan coach reportedly wants a European club job after his contract expires on Feb. 28, 2027.
Hajime Moriyasu's representatives have denied that Malaysia's football association formally approached him about coaching the national team for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. The Japan manager is reportedly looking to Europe for his next role.
According to Nikkan Gendai, the 58-year-old favours club management in Europe over another international coaching post. He reportedly hopes to become the first Japanese manager to lead a European top-flight club after his Japan Football Association contract expires on Feb. 28, 2027.
Moriyasu has coached Japan since 2018. His side beat Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, then progressed from their group at the 2026 tournament before Brazil eliminated them in the Round of 32.
Malaysia are currently led by interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe, who returned in June after Peter Cklamovski ended his contract to take a job at England's Salford City. The Football Association of Malaysia is seeking a permanent appointment.
The search comes after Malaysia dropped to 133rd in FIFA's rankings and lost their place at the 2027 Asian Cup following sanctions over ineligible naturalised players. Moriyasu's annual pay in Japan is estimated at more than RM10 million, reportedly beyond the Malaysian association's operating budget.
