31/07/2026
It is with immense sadness that I learned of the passing of my dear friend Shuichi Tamura, at the age of 68, after a battle with cancer.
I had the privilege of seeing him one last time on July 8.
We shared a lunch together with his closest and most loyal friends.
We all knew that his time was limited, yet Shuichi faced those final days with remarkable dignity and courage.
He insisted on welcoming us and inviting us to lunch in his own neighborhood, a final expression of the generosity that always defined him.
When it was time to say goodbye, we embraced each other for a long moment. In that embrace, I felt the affection, loyalty, and profound bond of a friendship that began in 1998 during the FIFA World Cup in France.
From that very first meeting, Shuichi stood by my side throughout my journey in Japan and my entire coaching career.
Through his writing, his enthusiasm, and his unwavering trust in me, he helped keep my football philosophy and my analyses alive in Japan.
For that, I will be forever grateful.
I will also always cherish the memory of our first book together, “Revolution,” a symbol of our friendship and our shared passion.
Today, I have lost a loyal friend, a brother.
But the memories we created together will remain forever engraved in my heart.
I extend my deepest condolences to his sister, his family, and all those who loved him.
Thank you for everything, Shuichi.
Rest in peace, my dear friend.
You will remain in my heart forever.
Philippe 🙏❤️
