Shu Kurata (born 22 August 1990) is a Japanese professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Gamba Osaka in the J1 League. He has also represented the Japan national team at senior and youth levels.
Early Life and Education
Kurata was born in Takatsuki, Osaka Prefecture, Japan. He attended Takatsuki High School, where he developed his football skills and participated in various youth competitions.
Club Career
Gamba Osaka (2009–present)
- Debut: Kurata made his professional debut for Gamba Osaka in the 2009 season.
- Breakthrough: He became a regular starter in the 2011 season, contributing to Gamba’s J1 League title that year.
- Key Achievements:
- J1 League Champion: 2014
- J.League Cup Winner: 2014
- Emperor’s Cup Winner: 2015
- Japanese Super Cup Winner: 2015
- Playing Style: Known for his technical ability, vision, and set‑piece expertise, Kurata often operates in an advanced midfield role, creating scoring opportunities and contributing goals.
Loan Spell – FC Gifu (2012)
- In 2012, Kurata was loaned to FC Gifu of the J2 League, where he made 31 league appearances and scored 8 goals, gaining valuable first‑team experience.
International Career
- Youth Level: Kurata represented Japan at the U-23 level, participating in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London where Japan reached the quarterfinals.
- Senior Team: He earned his first senior cap on 6 September 2012 in a friendly against the United Arab Emirates. As of the latest records, he has accumulated several caps, featuring primarily as a substitute or squad rotation player.
Style of Play
Kurata is primarily an attacking midfielder noted for:
- Precise passing and ability to unlock defenses.
- Proficiency in delivering dead‑ball situations, including free kicks and corners.
- Versatility to play centrally or on the wings.
Personal Life
Kurata maintains a low public profile off the pitch. He is known to engage in community activities organized by Gamba Osaka, including youth football clinics.
Career Statistics (selected)
| Season | Club | League Apps | League Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Gamba Osaka | 4 | 0 |
| 2010 | Gamba Osaka | 12 | 1 |
| 2011 | Gamba Osaka | 30 | 4 |
| 2012* | FC Gifu (loan) | 31 | 8 |
| 2013 | Gamba Osaka | 28 | 5 |
| 2014 | Gamba Osaka | 33 | 7 |
| 2015 | Gamba Osaka | 31 | 6 |
| ... | ... | ... | ... |
| *Statistics are up to the end of the 2023 season; detailed season‑by‑season data can be found in official J.League records. |
Honours
Club
- J1 League: 2014
- J2 League: 2013 (promotion with Gamba Osaka)
- J.League Cup: 2014
- Emperor’s Cup: 2015
- Japanese Super Cup: 2015
International
- AFC Asian Cup Runner‑up: 2019 (member of the squad)
References
- J.League official player profile.
- Japan Football Association match archives.
- Gamba Osaka club publications.
