Wataru Harada

Wataru Harada, plying his trade as a right back for Kashiwa Reysol, is making waves in the J-League with his impressive defensive prowess. At 28, Harada has honed his craft, excelling particularly in one-on-one situations and penalty area defending—areas where he consistently outmanoeuvres opponents with intelligence and timing. His ability to retain possession under pressure is second to none, making him a reliable outlet at the back. Harada's progressive passing is a key feature of his style of play, ensuring seamless transitions from defence to attack. While he might not be the most adventurous when it comes to carrying the ball forward, his knack for pinpoint distribution compensates, linking up effectively with teammates. Although his attacking contributions aren't the focal point, his goal efficiency suggests an opportunistic streak when venturing forward. In essence, Harada represents a modern full-back, seamlessly blending defensive solidity with the ability to launch progressive plays, a combination that's invaluable in any scout report.