Ueda's audacious plan to dominate on the world stage follows a record-breaking season in the Eredivisie. The 27-year-old forward, who netted 25 goals for Feyenoord, is prepared to confront his former fans as his national team, Japan, faces the Netherlands in the World Cup group stage.
#What led to Ueda's remarkable performance?
Ueda's 25 goals in the league came from a spectacular start, where he scored 18 times in just 15 matches. A standout moment of his season was on December 6, 2025, when he scored four goals in a dominant win over PEC Zwolle. His performance transcended club play, and he finished the season with a total of 26 goals across all competitions, highlighting his scoring prowess.
#How does Ueda view the upcoming World Cup?
Ueda has openly expressed his commitment to scoring the critical goal against the Netherlands, marking a bold statement against the backdrop of his successful season.
#What are the implications for Ueda’s career?
His impressive season has garnered attention from Premier League clubs, signaling a potential move to top-tier football. Ueda’s development as a player began at Hosei University and continued in the J-League, but his breakthrough in Europe came with Cercle Brugge before his 2023 transfer to Feyenoord. Under the guidance of coach Robin van Persie, he has evolved into Japan's primary offensive threat, poised to make a significant impact in the 2026 World Cup, especially following his limited exposure in the previous World Cup.