Biography
Who is Akira Kaji?
Early life and club career
Akira Kaji was born in Minami-Awaji, Japan, and began his football path after finishing his studies at Takigawa Daini High School. He started his professional path by joining Cerezo Osaka in the year 1998, stepping onto the pitch for his initial league match against Avispa Fukuoka in July of that same year. Finding it difficult to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup during his early club days, he was sent on a loan spell to Oita Trinita for the start of the 2000 season.
After spending two seasons with Oita Trinita, Akira Kaji moved to FC Tokyo in 2002 under the guidance of manager Hiromi Hara. Manager Hara shifted him into a more attacking role on the field, helping him become a regular starter for the squad. During his time with FC Tokyo, he helped the team secure the 2004 J.League Cup by converting a crucial penalty kick in the final against the Urawa Reds after the match ended in a scoreless draw following extra time.
Success with Gamba Osaka
At the start of the 2006 season, Akira Kaji transferred to Gamba Osaka and made an immediate impact by scoring in his opening league match against the Urawa Reds. His strong performances on the pitch earned him selection to the 2006 J.League Best XI team. He continued to collect silverware with the club over the next several years, adding titles such as the 2007 J.League Cup, along with the Emperor's Cup in 2008 and 2009.
On the continental stage, Akira Kaji helped Gamba Osaka capture the 2008 AFC Champions League title and also achieved a third-place finish at the 2008 Club World Cup. As his time with the club progressed, physical injuries began to limit his playing time starting in the 2012 season. After spending eight years with Gamba Osaka, he decided to take his career abroad and signed with Major League Soccer club Chivas USA in June 2014.
Later playing years and international career
Following the disbandment of Chivas USA later in 2014, Akira Kaji returned to Japan and joined Fagiano Okayama in 2015 to continue playing. He ultimately concluded his long professional playing career at the end of the 2017 season. On the international front, he was part of the Japan U20 squad that finished as runners-up at the 1999 World Youth Championship finals.
Akira Kaji earned his first senior cap for the Japan national team in October 2003 during a friendly match against Tunisia under coach Zico. He became the first-choice right full-back for the squad, winning the 2004 AFC Asian Cup and participating in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. After recording sixty-four appearances and scoring two goals for his country, he officially announced his retirement from international football in May 2008.
Birthday and age
Akira Kaji was born on January 13, 1980, which makes Akira 46 years old today. That birthday falls under the Capricorn sign. Akira shares the date with 26 other famous people.
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