Watch: Japan's Zion Suzuki opens up about joining Kaoru Mitoma in Premier League

Suzuki says he wants to follow in Kaoru Mitoma’s footsteps

In an exclusive interview with Khel Now, Japanese wonderkid Zion Suzuki opens up about joining the likes of Kaoru Mitoma in the English Premier League.

Japanese sensation Zion Suzuki talks candidly about wanting to play in the English Premier League alongside players like Kaoru Mitoma. Last summer, Zion Suzuki was also linked with a transfer to Manchester United last summer. The player, however, chose to sign with Belgian team STVV rather than the Red Devils.

It’s claimed that Suzuki, 20, turned down a move to sign with Japanese-owned STVV after United and Urawa Red Diamonds agreed on a fee. Suzuki was expected to serve as United’s reserve custodian.

United believed Suzuki was required to play in the Premier League for two more years before they thought he was prepared.

Suzuki decided to join STVV this summer although they were at the bottom of the Belgian Pro League the previous season. He believes that at this point in his career, it is crucial to have regular starts.

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In a recent explanation of his decision to turn down United, the goalie acknowledged that it all came down to the role that was being presented.

“I decided to transfer this time as a step up in aiming to be the best in the world. There was indeed an offer from Manchester United,” Suzuki said (via GOAL).

“As a football player and as a person, if I hadn’t thought about anything, of course, I would like to go to Manchester United, but among them, I really want to spend time thinking about what kind of future awaits me. After much thought, I made this decision.

“Manchester United have acquired [Andre] Onana. I need to participate in matches, and I think it is also important to play on the world stage. I want to make the most of what I have learned here and do my best.”

Suzuki has now left the door open for other Premier League clubs to pounce on his signing: “While many players are active overseas, it is difficult to become a ‘keeper. I think we are going to have a really tough battle ahead of us in that kind of place.

“There are still no Japanese who are active as goalkeepers in the Premier League, so I want to be one of the first players to do so. I want to keep moving forward step by step.”

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