Daisuke Matsui’s Vision for Japanese Futsal

In the 2023-2024 season, Matsui took on the role of F.League ambassador, working to elevate the profile of futsal and the league. During the F.League Kickoff Conference in May, he emphasized the importance of creating environments where players can excel, stating, “In order to spread futsal, it is important to provide a place where players can shine and play. I would like to work to create such an environment.”

As chairman, Matsui has outlined his vision for the Japan Futsal Top League under the motto “Petit à petit” (little by little). His mission is to gradually improve the environment surrounding Japanese futsal through five key initiatives.

At the press conference, Matsui expressed his approach to his new role:

“I am Daisuke Matsui, the new chairman of the board. Trends in the sports world are fast, so I want to respond to them, keep the good things that are the foundation, change what needs to be changed, and gradually show the direction. In taking up this position, I want to work as a team with a sense of urgency about the Japan Futsal Top League, not just as an individual, but as a whole team. There are good things about futsal and how it has become popular, but I would like to be able to maximize my abilities and demonstrate them in various ways, such as through futsal leagues and youth development leagues, and gain recognition among the general public.”

Executive Director Takahiko Onodera added his support, noting Matsui’s extensive experience in both Japanese soccer and futsal. Since 2021, Matsui has been active in both sports, and his role as an ambassador last year included participating in clinics and exhibitions. Onodera believes Matsui’s deep understanding of futsal and his ability to promote the sport will significantly benefit the F League and the Women’s F League.

Matsui’s “Petit à petit” mission encompasses five specific goals:

1. Cross-border: Promoting interaction across generations, regions, categories, soccer, and futsal.
2. Global Mindset: Increasing opportunities for international engagement.
3. Next Generation: Popularizing futsal among elementary and junior high school students.
4. Fan Build: Launching a fan marketing initiative.
5. Social Good: Aiming to make the league beneficial to society.

These initiatives are designed to enhance the futsal environment in Japan progressively, ensuring sustainable growth and increased recognition for the sport.

Matsui’s comprehensive approach to advancing Japanese futsal is commendable, with a clear focus on grassroots development, international engagement, and societal impact. His dual experience in both soccer and futsal uniquely positions him to understand and address the needs of players and fans alike. However, several questions arise regarding the practical implementation of his vision:

1. Youth Engagement: How will Matsui’s initiatives specifically target and sustain interest among elementary and junior high school students in futsal? What programs or partnerships with schools and local communities are planned?
2. Global Exposure: What strategies will be employed to increase international exposure and competition opportunities for Japanese futsal teams? Are there plans to invite international teams for exhibitions or to participate in global tournaments?
3. Fan Development: How will the fan marketing initiative be structured to attract and retain a loyal fan base? What innovative approaches will be taken to enhance fan engagement both online and offline?
4. Measuring Success: What metrics will be used to measure the success of Matsui’s five missions over his two-year term? How will progress be tracked and reported to stakeholders?
5. Sustainability and Legacy: Beyond his two-year term, how does Matsui plan to ensure that the changes and improvements he implements will be sustainable and continue to benefit Japanese futsal in the long term?