Japanese · Hyogo, Japan · Born 16 April 1986Tireless and dependable Japanese striker who became a Premier League champion with Leicester City in one of football's greatest fairytale stories.
Shinji Okazaki was born in Hyogo, Japan on 16 April 1986. A hard-working, technically capable centre-forward whose relentless pressing, movement and all-round contribution made him a valued member of every team he played for, even when goals were not always forthcoming. He developed at Shimizu S-Pulse before moving to Stuttgart in Germany, then Mainz. Leicester City signed him in 2015 and he was an important squad member in their extraordinary 2015-16 Premier League title win — perhaps the greatest sporting upset in football history. He scored crucial goals including a flying overhead kick against Watford. He later played at Malaga, Cartagena and various clubs before retiring. For Japan he earned 119 caps and scored 50 goals, appearing at three World Cups. His work ethic and professionalism were admired at every club.
Being part of Leicester City's miraculous Premier League title win
He was part of Leicester City's miracle Premier League title win in 2016 — possibly the greatest upset in football history — and scored a stunning overhead kick goal against Watford that is remembered fondly.
Did You Know?How They Played
Hardworking striker known for intelligent movement, work rate, and ability to create space for teammates
Lasting Impact
First Japanese player to win the Premier League and a key figure in one of football's greatest underdog stories
Career Honours
- Premier League 2016 (Leicester City)
- Premier League 2016
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shimizu S-Pulse | 2005–2011 | 158 | 23 | #9 |
| Stuttgart | 2011–2013 | 120 | 28 | #9 |
| Leicester City | 2015–2019 | 105 | 24 | #9 |
| Huddersfield Town | 2021–2022 | 85 | 17 | #9 |
| Malaga | 2019–2020 | 17 | 1 | — |
| Real Zaragoza | 2020–2021 | 31 | 7 | — |
| Mainz 05 | 2013–2015 | 68 | 27 | — |
 Japan | — | 119 | 50 | — |
Japanese Athletes