Funa Yanase

Funa Yanase is a talented central midfielder currently playing for Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina in the WE League. At just 22 years old, Yanase has already made a significant impact on the pitch, having played 21 games and accumulated 1,458 minutes this season. Known for her defensive prowess, Yanase operates primarily as a central defensive midfielder (CDM), anchoring her team with her strong ability to intercept and challenge opponents. Her impressive stat line includes 4.94 possession-adjusted interceptions and 8.73 possession-adjusted challenges per game, underscoring her role as a formidable defensive force.

Despite playing a primarily defensive role, Yanase shows promise in her ability to advance the ball and contribute to her team's playmaking efforts. Her progressive passing and carrying metrics are notable, with an average carrying distance of 43.42 meters and a progressive passing distance of 156.77 meters per game. While not typically involved in direct goal creation—recording 0 goals and assists per game—her contributions are pivotal in transitioning play and maintaining team structure. Her playmaker rank of 3 reflects her potential and growing influence within the league, showcasing her as a key asset for Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina. As a player archetyped as an "Anchor," Yanase's contributions may fly under the radar on the score sheet, but her impact on the game becomes evident through her defensive consistency and strategic positioning.