Career Path - Shunsuke Nakamura

Renowned for his free-kick taking ability, Shunsuke Nakamura is one of the most distinguished Japanese footballers of all time.

We examine the career path of the technically gifted attacking midfielder.

Shunsuke Nakamura Career Path

Born and raised in Yokohama, Shunsuke Nakamura began his professional career at Yokohama F. Marinos in the Japanese top flight in 1997.

A silky attacking midfielder, Nakamura made 148 league appearances for his hometown club before moving to continental Europe to sign for newly-promoted Serie A outfit Reggina in 2002.

Nakamura made a strong initial impact at Reggina, finishing as the club's joint-top league scorer with seven goals.

Injuries and a rapid turnover of managers then led to Nakamura's development stalling at Reggina, with the Japan international opting to move on with Scottish giants Celtic in 2005.

Nakamura would enjoy the best years of his career in Glasgow, dazzling both domestically and in Europe as he became a firm fans' favourite amongst Celtic supporters.

After winning six trophies at Celtic, Nakamura moved to Espanyol upon the expiry of his contract in 2009 but struggled to adapt to the Spanish game and way of life.

The free-kick specialist quickly decided to move home and rejoin Yokohama F. Marinos in 2010, with Nakamura remarkably continuing his playing career in Japan up until the age of 44.

James Wilson

• Celtic F.C.
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