Ikeda steps down as Japan head coach

Ikeda took over from Asako Takakura in 2021 and left after having taken charge of Japan at the recent Paris Olympics 2024.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to the players and staff who have fought alongside us as Nadeshiko Japan, the partner companies who have supported us, and the supporters who have cheered us on so warmly and enthusiastically in the two years and 11 months since I became head coach,” said Ikeda in a statement.

“I believe that we have grown and increased what we can do as a team through the world tournaments of the World Cup and the Olympics.

“I hope that Nadeshiko Japan will continue to deliver courage and inspiration to many people and be a place where children can dream. Thank you very much.”

In his time in charge, Ikeda led the team to a third place finish in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022™ as well as quarter-final appearances at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 and Paris Olympics 2024.

During that time, Japan have largely remained the best ranked Asian side in the FIFA World Ranking and are currently in seventh spot.