Samurai Scouting: Yuki Soma, Hayao Kawabe & Yoshinori Muto – Tactical Tempura Plate from the J-League

Samurai Scouting: Japanese Tempura Edition – Yuki Soma, Hayao Kawabe & Yoshinori Muto

Japan’s next generation of football stars is sizzling on the pitch—and we’ve plated them up in a Japanese Tempura-themed scouting review. From defensive pivots to wide wingers, these three Samurai are bringing their tactical flair, movement, and creativity to the J-League, each playing a vital role in their teams’ formations.

Tactical Tempura Plate – Soma (Left No.10), Kawabe (RCM), and Muto (RW) mapped through their key roles and movements.

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Yuki Soma – Machida Zelvia (3-4-2-1, Left Narrow Attacking Midfielder/Dual No.10)

In Machida Zelvia’s 3-4-2-1 setup, Yuki Soma operates as the left-sided narrow attacking midfielder, one of the dual No.10s positioned just behind the striker. Rather than anchoring deep, Soma plays between the lines—finding pockets in the left half-space and linking midfield with the front line. In our Tempura Plate, he’s the crispy creative layer—light, sharp, and constantly adding attacking flavor.

Why he stands out:

• Intelligent movement between defensive lines to receive the ball.
• Quick combinations with wing-backs and the central striker.
• High pressing from advanced areas, disrupting opposition build-up.

Key Moments vs Yokohama FM:

• Found central pockets to connect attacking phases.
• Pressed aggressively from the front, helping force turnovers.
• Linked effectively with wide players to create forward momentum.

Soma’s role adds fluidity and creativity to Machida’s attack, ensuring constant movement around the striker while maintaining pressure high up the pitch—like a perfectly timed tempura bite that keeps the dish lively and dynamic.

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Hayao Kawabe – Sanfrecce Hiroshima (3-4-2-1, Right Central Midfielder)

Operating ahead of the pivot, Hayao Kawabe brings energy and versatility to Sanfrecce Hiroshima’s midfield. In our “Tempura Plate,” Kawabe is the spicy miso element—adding kick and dynamism to every transition.

Why he stands out:

• Exceptional stamina and box-to-box work rate.
• Smart late runs into the box, creating goal threats.
• Excellent in overloads and linking play in central areas.

Key Moments vs V-Varen Nagasaki:

• 3 key passes and 2 successful dribbles.
• Constant movement between defensive coverage and attacking support.

Kawabe adds tactical flexibility, bridging defense and attack, while keeping the team vibrant and unpredictable.

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Yoshinori Muto – Vissel Kobe (4-3-3, Right Winger)

On the flanks of Vissel Kobe’s 4-3-3, Yoshinori Muto is the golden tempura finish—fast, precise, and ready to convert chances. Positioned as the right winger, Muto stretches defenses and provides creative options for his team.

Why he stands out:

• Intelligent movement and positioning in tight spaces.
• Quick dribbling and finishing from wide areas.
• Links effectively with central striker to create overloads.

Key Moments vs Kyoto Sanga:

• 1 shot on target and 2 successful dribbles.
• Frequently finds pockets between fullback and center-back.

Muto’s play adds flair and decisiveness—just like the golden tempura topping a perfectly cooked plate.

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Japanese Tempura Tactical Summary 🍤

Player	Formation	Position	Role	Key Strengths
Yuki Soma	3-4-2-1	Left AM	Advanced Creator/ Link Player	Movement between lines, pressing high, combination play
Hayao Kawabe	3-4-2-1	Right CM	Box-to-Box Midfielder	Stamina, overload creation, late runs
Yoshinori Muto	4-3-3	Right Winger	Wide Forward	Movement, dribbling, finishing

Flavor Notes:

• Soma: crunchy stability in midfield.
• Kawabe: spicy energy linking attack and defense.
• Muto: golden finish, providing width and creativity.

Check out our Tactical Tempura Plate infographic to see these Samurai in action, their key movements, and passing lanes—perfectly visualized like a chef’s signature dish.