Yuji Okuma (大熊 裕司, Okuma Yuji, born January 19, 1969) is a former Japanesefootball player and manager. His elder brother Kiyoshi is also a former footballer.
Playing career
Okuma was born in Saitama on January 19, 1969. After graduating from Chuo University, he joined Hitachi (later Kashiwa Reysol) in 1991. He played many matches as defensive midfielder from first season. In 1996, he moved to newly was promoted to J1 League club, Kyoto Purple Sanga. He played many matches in 1996 and he became a regular player in 1997. In 1998, he moved to Avispa Fukuoka and played in 1 season. He retired end of 1998 season.
Coaching career
After retirement, Okuma started coaching career at Avispa Fukuoka in 1999. In 2005, he moved to Cerezo Osaka and served as coach. In 2007, he became a coach for Japan U-20 national team. In 2010, he returned to Cerezo Osaka and became a manager for youth team. In September 2014, top team manager Marco Pezzaiuoli was sacked for poor results. Okuma became a new manager as Pezzaiuoli successor. However Cerezo finished at the 17th place of 18 clubs in 2014 season. Cerezo was relegated to J2 League and Okuma resigned a manager. In 2015, he became a manager for youth team. In 2016, he became a manager for new team Cerezo Osaka U-23.
