Langford, BC – April 18, 2024 – Pacific FC add a temporary coach to their staff today as former professional player Kengo Nakamura joins the Tridents while completing his Japan Football Association Class S coaching licence, the highest level of coaching in Japan. He will work with the club until May 5.

Nakamara played midfield for 18 seasons for Kawasaki Frontale in Japan’s J. League making 546 appearances and serving as club captain from 2012 – 2017. A legend in the Japanese football community, Nakamura retired in 2020 at age 40 and is now embarking on a career in coaching.

“We welcome Kengo to our club, this is an opportunity to host a player with great experience,” said James Merriman, Head Coach, Pacific FC. “We will learn from each-other, he will join our staff and share his knowledge with our players.”

Nakamura will shadow Pacific FC’s coaching staff that includes assistant coaches Armando Sa and Chris Merriman.

He brings playing experiences that include his time with the Japanese National Team, where he was capped 68 times between 2006 and 2013.

In 2016, Nakamura was named MVP and Japanese Footballer of the Year.

Since his retirement from playing, Nakamura has worked in the front office of J. League in a media relations role.

Nakamura will be pitch-side for Pacific FC’ s upcoming home match on Friday, April 19 against Valour FC.

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