Thinley Namgay

Keisuke Honda, 38, a Japanese international football icon, will join Paro FC on August 4 on a one-game contract to feature in the upcoming Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge League match against Nepal’s Church Boys United on August 13.

By joining Paro FC after a two-year break from professional football, it  marks Honda’s appearance in various clubs in 10 countries so far. 

Currently, Paro FC is leading the ongoing BoB Bhutan Premier League 2024 with 25 points.

However, the club has not yet confirmed whether Honda will also play in the premier league matches before August 13.

Paro FC’s President, Karma Jigme, is glad that Honda accepted the offer to join the club. “Honda is an exceptional player internationally, and his wealth of experience will boost the morale of the team ahead of the crucial match in the AFC Challenge League.”

Karma Jigme said his players could learn a lot from Honda and that his signing demonstrates Paro FC’s ambition to elevate Bhutanese football to new heights.

He added that it would also be a catalyst for promoting soccer throughout Bhutan.

Left-footed Honda, a number four jersey bearer for the Japanese national team, is a versatile attacking midfielder and winger. He is known as a quick and creative player with the ability to execute bending free-kicks and strike from long distances.

Keisuke Honda said that he is excited to join Paro FC and contribute to the growth of football in Bhutan.

“This is a unique opportunity to bring my experience to a new environment and help the team achieve its goals. Competing in the AFC Challenge League is an exciting prospect, and I look forward to working with my new teammates and the passionate fans of Paro FC,” Honda said.

Having featured in 90 international games representing Japan’s national team between 2008 and 2018, Honda’s presence is expected to enhance Paro FC’s squad.

He was also part of the squad that won the 2011 Asian Cup and was declared player of the tournament. 

Some of his notable international appearances include the 2008 Beijing Olympics and three consecutive World Cups: 2010 in South Africa, 2014 in Brazil, and 2018 in Russia.

Keisuke Honda was born in Osaka on June 13, 1986.