Takashi Fukunishi

Takashi Fukunishi (福西 崇史, Fukunishi Takashi; born September 1, 1976) is a Japanese former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He played for Japan national team.

Fukunishi was born in Niihama on September 1, 1976. After graduating from high school, he joined Júbilo Iwata in 1995. He played as defensive midfielder with Dunga in 1990s. After that, he became a central player in golden era in club history. The club won the champions at 1997, 1999 and 2002 J1 League. The club also 1998 J.League Cup and 2003 Emperor's Cup. In Asia, the club won the champions 1998–99 Asian Club Championship and the 2nd place 1999–00 and 2000–01 Asian Club Championship. After that, he played FC Tokyo (2007) and Tokyo Verdy (2008).

In June 1999, Fukunishi was selected Japan national team for 1999 Copa América. At this competition, on June 29, he debuted against Peru. Although there were few opportunities for him to play, he was selected for the Japanese squad at the 2002 FIFA World Cup and played five minutes as a substitute against Russia. After the 2002 FIFA World Cup, he became a regular player from 2004 on. At 2000 AFC Asian Cup, he played all six matches and scored two goals, including Japan's first goal in the final. He also played at 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2006 FIFA World Cup. He played 64 games and scored 7 goals for Japan until 2006.

J1 League Best Eleven: 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003