Biography
Who is Naoki Soma?
Early life and education
Naoki Soma was born in Shimizu-ku, Japan, on July 19, 1971. He completed his secondary education at Shimizu Higashi High School before attending Waseda University. These educational experiences provided a foundation for his subsequent transition into professional sports at the highest level of Japanese association football.
Playing career
After graduating from university, Naoki Soma joined the Kashima Antlers in 1994. He established himself as a left-back during a successful period for the team. Between 1995 and 1998, he was named to the J1 League Best Eleven for four consecutive years. During his time with Kashima, the club secured multiple trophies, including the J1 League titles in 1996, 1998, 2000, and 2001, as well as the Emperor's Cup and J.League Cup.
In December 2000, he suffered an injury that kept him sidelined for about one year. He returned to the pitch in the latter half of 2001 but found limited playing time. In 2002, he was loaned to Tokyo Verdy. He rejoined the Kashima Antlers in 2003 before transferring to Kawasaki Frontale in 2004. At Kawasaki, he adapted his role to play as a sweeper and a defensive midfielder. He officially ended his playing career following the 2005 season.
International experience
Naoki Soma made his debut for the Japan men's national football team on May 28, 1995, in a match against Ecuador. He became a consistent starter for the squad, operating as both a left-back and a left midfielder. In 1996, he participated in every match for the team, including appearances in the AFC Asian Cup.
He played a role in the 1998 FIFA World Cup qualification process, which marked the first time the Japanese national team reached the tournament. He subsequently played in every match for Japan during the 1998 World Cup. His international career also included participation in the 1999 Copa America. By the time he concluded his international play in 1999, he had appeared in 58 games and scored 4 goals.
Coaching tenure
Following his retirement as a player, Naoki Soma worked as a television pundit before turning to management. In 2010, he took charge of the Japan Football League team FC Machida Zelvia. The following year, he moved to the J1 League to manage Kawasaki Frontale. He held that position until April 12, 2012, when the club dismissed him due to poor team performance.
In 2014, he returned to manage FC Machida Zelvia, which was competing in the J3 League. Under his guidance, the team earned second place in 2015 and secured promotion to the J2 League. In November 2024, it was announced that he would take on the role of manager for Kagoshima United starting in 2025.
Birthday and age
Naoki Soma was born on July 19, 1971, which makes Naoki 55 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. Naoki shares the date with 26 other famous people.
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