Sanfrecce Hiroshima

The Violets were the vice-champions in 2024. They finished only 4 points behind Vissel Kobe and with a bit more luck could have easily won the title. Missed it only due to the 4 defeats suffered in the final 5 rounds. Up until round 33 looked destined to be champions. Hiroshima had the best attack in the entire J1 last season – 72 goals scored in 38 rounds. This was impressive considering that only one player went in double digits and only just, Yuki Ohashi scored 10 goals before he was sold in September. His departure led to unsettled finish to the season. Hiroshima also lost another main striker Pieros Sotiriou (9 goals) this winter. This was addressed very well though. Signed Ryo Germain to lead the attack. He comes fresh off scoring 19 league goals in 2024 and should be able to provide quality presence inside the box. Also, the German manager Skibbe hopes to see more of the same from his countryman Tolgay Arslan. The 34-year-old winger joined only midway through last season but in 14 league appearances he managed to accumulate 8 goals and 5 assists. If he can maintain this level of efficiency the Violets will continue to be among the leading scorers in the league. The main concerns seem to be in defence. The title last season was lost after Hiroshima collapsed physically during the final 5 rounds. This was largely blamed on the tiredness displays by the duo of key centre-backs. Captain Sho Sasaki is 35-years-old now, his main partner Tsukasa Shiotani turned 36 in December. They seem set to remain the main starters in defence. However, much more help will be needed from the younger defenders if Hiroshima want to have their star veterans fresh for the later stages of the campaign.