Shion Imai, a rock in Ozu's defense

Japanese football continues to produce promising defenders, such as Kota Takai and Junnosuke Suzuki. One of the latest names to emerge from the country’s vibrant high school system is Shion Imai, an 18-year-old centre-back from Kumamoto Ozu High School, who has been highly impressive during the 2025 Inter High School Sports Festival, earning a spot in the top 35 players of the tournament.

Ozu's team picture

A defensive anchor

Imai is a rock-solid central defender who thrives in a sweeping role. While he is not a ball-playing centre-back, his strength lies in the gritty, unglamorous aspects of the game, such as winning duels, commanding the air, and organising the defensive line. His ability to consistently nullify aerial threats made the opposition’s target forward almost invisible throughout the entire tournament. He also carried a set-piece threat, getting free inside the box on corners, but could improve in his precision.

Technical & Tactical side of the game

Technically, Imai keeps it simple. His first touch and short passing are reliable, but he tends to avoid risk, preferring to shift the ball to his teammates quickly. Imai leaves long distribution and creates play from the back to his partner centre defender. Suggesting he is more comfortable recycling possession than initiating build-up.

Tactically, his awareness is a strength. He positions himself smartly, reads plays well, and times his step-ups into midfield to cut out danger. Occasionally, he’s forced wide when his full-back pushes too high. The one area he must refine is his decision-making when clearing under pressure, as a few hurried moments could have been costly at a higher level.

Looks may be deceiving

Physically, Imai is a paradox. Though skinny, he uses his body and strength intelligently, shielding the ball and leveraging his frame to dominate duels. His aerial ability is elite, as he wins nearly every header across his matches. Pace, however, is a concern. He lacks acceleration, often relying on the covering defensive midfielder when pulled into high defensive lines.

Psychologically, he exhibits hard work and focus, though lapses occur, particularly in the few aerial duels he lost. Taking the third penalty in the shootout in the semi-finals against RKU Kashiwa revealed his confidence, but his composure under pressure still needs development. Leadership qualities remain understated, as he appears reserved rather than vocal.

Shion Imai's future

Imai looks ready for a strong university side or a youth team in the J League. With continued development, particularly in pace and ball-playing ability, he has the tools to become a reliable J league starter within two to five years. An ideal fit would be alongside a partner comfortable on the ball, allowing him to focus on defensive security.