Shinji Kagawa

Shinji Kagawa is one of the most successful Japanese midfielders in history, having stood out in the German Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund and also wearing the Manchester United shirt. Known for his game vision, movement between the lines and precise finishing, Kagawa was a key piece in the modernization of Japanese football in the 2010s. Discovered by Cerezo Osaka, he moved to Europe in 2010, where he quickly became one of the main players of Borussia Dortmund, German champions under Jürgen Klopp's command. His outstanding performance earned him, in 2012, a transfer to Manchester United, becoming the first Japanese player to wear the English club's shirt. After an inconsistent period in England, he returned to Borussia Dortmund in 2014, where he became an important part of the squad again for several years. He ended his career at clubs in Turkey, Greece, Belgium and back in Japan, always maintaining idol status in his home country. For the Japanese National Team, Kagawa played in three World Cups (2010, 2014 and 2018) and was instrumental in winning the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, establishing himself as one of the greatest Asian midfielders of his generation.