Ayase Ueda (foto: Getty Images)
Feyenoord’s Japanese striker Ayase Ueda has become Europe’s most prolific scorer this season with 18 goals in 15 games, surpassing Haaland, Mbappé, and Kane.
Ayase Ueda is making headlines across Europe after a sensational start to the season with Feyenoord. The Japanese striker has scored 18 goals in 15 league matches, overtaking the likes of Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Harry Kane in the race for Europe’s top scorer.
Ueda’s latest masterpiece came in Feyenoord’s 5–1 demolition of Heerenveen, where he scored four goals and delivered a flawless attacking display. His explosive form has made him one of the most efficient forwards on the continent and sparked growing speculation about a potential big-money move in 2026.
“It’s all coming together for him,” commented Dutch pundits after the match. “His movement, his finishing, his confidence – he’s unstoppable right now.”
From Bruges to Rotterdam Ueda’s journey to the top has been anything but conventional. He arrived in Europe just two years ago, joining Cercle Brugge in 2022 from Kashima Antlers. There, he shared the pitch with Slovenian midfielder Dino Hotić, who was among the first to praise the Japanese forward’s talent and work ethic.
After scoring consistently in Belgium, Ueda earned a move to Feyenoord in 2023 — and has since become the driving force behind the club’s title challenge. Feyenoord currently sit second in the Eredivisie, six points behind unbeaten leaders PSV Eindhoven.
Ueda has now been directly involved in nearly half of Feyenoord’s league goals this season. His sharp positioning, relentless pressing, and composure in front of goal have turned him into one of the most feared forwards in Dutch football.
Rising international star At the international level, Ueda’s momentum continues. He has scored 16 goals and added three assists in 36 appearances for the Japan national team, cementing his place as a key player ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
With Europe’s elite now watching closely, Feyenoord may soon struggle to keep hold of their latest sensation — a striker who, just like Haaland and Mbappé, is rewriting goal-scoring records one match at a time.