Naoki Kusunose


Naoki Kusunose is a former Japanese football player and manager. Currently, he is head coach of Japan women's national under-17 football team.

Playing career

Naoki Kusunose played for Yomiuri and Honda as defender.

Coaching career

Naoki Kusunose became manager for some youth team; e.g. Hakuoh University, Tokyo Verdy youth team. Since 2012, he became stuff for FC Machida Zelvia. In November, manager; Osvaldo Ardiles was sacked. Naoki Kusunose managed team as caretaker. After that, Yutaka Akita was appointed new manager. But In June 2013 manager; Yutaka Akita was sacked. So, Naoki Kusunose managed team as caretaker again until end of 2013 season. In February 2015, Naoki Kusunose became head coach for Japan women's U-17 national team. In November, Japan won second position in 2015 AFC U-16 Women's Championship and qualified for 2016 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. He resigned before 2018 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in November.