Ayase Ueda edges closer to Eredivisie history amid farewell speculation
Rotterdam, dinsdag, 14 april 2026.
Ayase Ueda scored his 23rd goal of the season in Feyenoord’s 1-1 draw against NEC, extending his lead in the Eredivisie scoring charts. The Japan international now stands alone as the league’s top scorer, eight goals ahead of his nearest rival. At 27, Ueda is on track to become the first Japanese player ever to claim the Eredivisie golden boot. His performance strengthens national team hopes ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Yet shadows loom. Persistent reports suggest Ueda will leave Feyenoord this summer on a free transfer. Fans in Kralingen face an emotional exit. A prolific chapter nears its close. Questions about his successor grow louder by the day.
Ueda’s milestone goal in hard-fought draw
Ayase Ueda scored in the 18th minute during Feyenoord’s home match against NEC Nijmegen, marking his 23rd goal of the Eredivisie campaign [1]. The header gave Feyenoord an early advantage at Stadion Feijenoord [3]. However, NEC equalized later to secure a 1-1 draw [2]. Ueda’s strike maintains his position atop the league’s scoring chart, now eight goals clear of the closest challenger [4]. The point keeps Feyenoord in contention for European qualification.
Race for the golden boot intensifies
With 23 goals in 28 appearances, Ayase Ueda leads the Eredivisie scoring race by a significant margin [1]. The gap of eight goals represents a 53.333% lead over the second-placed scorer based on available data [4]. No Japanese player has previously won the Eredivisie golden boot, placing Ueda on the brink of historic achievement [1]. His consistent form includes nine headed goals this season, showcasing aerial prowess [3]. The scoring pace suggests he remains the favorite despite the competition.
World Cup ambitions bolstered by form
Ueda’s domestic success strengthens his standing within the Japan national team setup ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup [4]. As one of manager Hajime Moriyasu’s key attacking options, his clinical finishing provides valuable depth [GPT]. Teammates like Takehiro Tomiyasu feature regularly alongside him for both club and country [4]. Japan’s preparations continue as they aim to progress beyond the group stage [GPT]. Strong performances in Europe remain crucial for selection confidence.
Future at Feyenoord hangs in balance
Persistent reports indicate Ayase Ueda will depart Feyenoord upon contract expiry this summer, potentially transferring on a free [2]. Such a move would mark the end of a productive spell in Rotterdam since his arrival in 2022 [GPT]. Supporters in Kralingen express mixed emotions, celebrating his contributions while anticipating change [2]. Speculation grows regarding which player might succeed him as the central striker [2]. Club management has yet to confirm succession plans publicly.