Naoki Kusunose
# Naoki Kusunose

Naoki Kusunose (楠瀬 直木, Kusunose Naoki, born April 17, 1964) is a former Japanese football player and manager. Currently, he is head coach of Japan women's national under-17 football team and he is current manager WE League club of Urawa Red Diamonds.

## 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 (aiming for 2016 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Jordan). 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.

