He is one of the most successful Asian footballer of all time. He was a superstar when Japanese football was going through the transition. Shinshuke Nakamura is a attacking midfielder who has played for various clubs in Europe. Celtic, RCD Espanyol and Reggina being the prominent ones.
He is remembered particularly for his stint at Celtic Park where he was just breathtaking with the Hoops. He was their Player of the Year in 2007. Infact he swept away all the individual honors at the end of season in year 2007.
He also won three league titles during his stay in Scotland.
He is the first Japanese player to score in UEFA Champions League. He was one of the most prominent Asian players who have been nominated for Ballon d’or.
He is well known for his vision, touch, and free kick-taking abilities; Steve Perryman once remarked that Nakamura "could open a tin of beans with his left foot.”
He was amazing in J-League as well. He is the only player who has won J-League’s MVP two times. He first won it as a youngster in 2000 and went on to repeat that feat in 2013, he won them both the times with his club Yokohoma Marinos.
He also plied his trade in La Liga with RCD Espanyol and in Italy with Reggina where he was bestowed upon with the prestigious no 10. Nakamura is more often than not remembered for his exploits with the Samurais. Under the management of Brazilian great Zico, Nakamura flourished.
He led Japan to the championship at Asian Cup 2004, where he was named Most Valuable Player, and qualification for the 2006 World Cup Finals. Zico’s attacking style did wonders for this once out of favor and talented youngster. Nakamura also starred for Japan in the 2003 and 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup, scoring a total of 4 goals in 6 matches.
Today, he is playing for J-League club Yokohoma Marinos and has retired from international football.
Honours
Club
Celtic
Scottish Premier League (3): 2006, 2007, 2008
Scottish Cup (1): 2007
Scottish League Cup (2): 2006, 2009
Yokohama F. Marions
Emperor's Cup (1): 2013
J. League Cup (1): 2001
Country
AFC Asian Cup (2): 2000, 2004
Individual
J. League Best Eleven (3): 1999, 2000, 2013
J. League MVP (2): 2000, 2013
AFC Asian Cup MVP (1): 2004
SPFA Players' Player of the Year (1): 2007
SFWA Footballer of the Year : (1)2007
Celtic Player of The Year (1): 2007[34]
Celtic Fans Player of the Year: 2007[34]
Scottish PFA's Team of the Season: 2007[35]
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