AFC Champions League Elite
Hasebe has seamlessly stepped into the role at Frontale, replacing the legendary Toru Oniki, who steered the Japanese side to four J1 League titles, two Emperor’s Cup, one J League Cup and four Japanese Super Cups.
Oniki’s regret was not being able to add the AFC Champions League trophy to the Frontale cabinet but Hasebe - who took charge at the beginning of the 2025 J1 League season - has the perfect chance to end the wait.
With a calm demeanour off the pitch and a sharp footballing mind on it, the 54-year-old has emerged as one of the most tactically astute figures in the J.League.
A technically gifted player known for his intelligent movement and passing, Hasebe enjoyed a steady playing career before transitioning into coaching, a move that would prove even more impactful.
After honing his skills as an assistant and in youth development, Hasebe took on his first managerial role with Mito HollyHock in 2018. However, it was his appointment at Avispa Fukuoka in 2020 that brought Hasebe to national prominence.
Hasebe led newly-promoted Avispa to their best-ever league finishes and a historic run to the J.League Cup final in 2023, where they beat Urawa Red Diamonds 2-1.
Under Hasebe’s leadership, Frontale finished second in the East region of the League Stage.
Hasebe has been able to get the best out of his squad - which has a good mix of youth and experience - with Frontale breezing past Shanghai Shenhua 4-1 on aggregate in the Round of 16 before pulling off another masterclass to edge Qatar’s Al Sadd 3-2 in the quarter-finals.
Against a Cristiano Ronaldo-led Al Nassr Club, Hasebe once again showed off his tactical flexibility - effortlessly getting his team to change formations while making full use of his emerging young talents.
A final against a star-studded Al Ahli Club now beckons and Hasebe has promised another tactical surprise as Frontale bid to end their wait for continental glory.
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