Biography
Who is Keita Suzuki?
Early career and Urawa Reds
Keita Suzuki began his professional path after leaving Tokai University Shoyo High School. He signed with the Urawa Red Diamonds in 2000. His professional debut occurred on December 3, 2000, during an Emperor's Cup match against Honda Lock SC. By 2001, he established himself as a regular starter in the midfield.
He played a crucial role in the club's 2006 J1 League championship victory. Following that successful season, he received the J.League Best XI award. The team continued to excel, winning the AFC Champions League in 2007. That same year, he earned the title of Japanese Footballer of the Year. He remained with the Urawa Red Diamonds for his entire professional club career.
International football
On the international stage, Keita served as the captain for the Japan under-23 national team during the qualifiers for the 2004 Summer Olympics. Although he led the team through the qualifying rounds, he did not join the final squad for the games.
Under the leadership of manager Ivica Osim, he earned his first senior cap for Japan on August 9, 2006, in a friendly against Trinidad and Tobago. He became a trusted player under Osim, starting in all 20 matches during the coach's tenure. Between 2006 and 2008, he played 28 games for the Japan men's national team. Osim famously compared his playing style to Claude Makélélé.
Retirement and family
Keita Suzuki is married to the Japanese actress Hiroko Hatano. He is also a cousin to professional footballer Koki Mizuno. Throughout his later years, he continued to play consistently for his club.
However, his playing opportunities decreased in 2015. In October of that year, he announced his departure from the Urawa Red Diamonds. Following the final match of the 2015 regular season in November, he officially retired from professional football. His career remains defined by his loyalty to one club and his contributions to Japanese football.
Birthday and age
Keita Suzuki was born on July 8, 1981, which makes Keita 45 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. Keita shares the date with 50 other famous people.
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