PETALING JAYA: For Dion Cools, a move to Japan’s prestigious J.League is not just a bold step in his professional career.
It's also a message to the entire Malaysian football ecosystem - dream bigger, go further.
The national rightback recently signed with Cerezo Osaka, making history as the first Malaysian to play in the J.League One.
But to him, the milestone extends beyond personal achievement.
"Being the first Malaysian in the J.League isn’t just a personal milestone. It puts Malaysian football on the map in a serious way," said the 29-year-old.
"I want young players back home to see that it’s possible to break through, to compete, and to thrive. We’re not just telling a story - we’re building the future of football, both here and back home."
Cools, who has previously played in Belgium, Thailand and Denmark, described the environment at Cerezo as world-class where discipline and attention to detail are second nature.
"It’s been an incredible journey so far. The environment is structured and focused. Everything from training to match prep is designed to help players improve every single day. It sharpens you, both mentally and physically."
Cools has so far played two J.League matches with Cerezo and also one in the Emperor’s Cup.
While his focus remains on performing in Japan, Cools is also deeply committed to using this platform to uplift the next generation in Malaysia, especially at the grassroots level.
"Grassroots football is where everything starts. I’ve seen the impact it can have, especially through Adidas’ past initiatives like the Adidas Malaysia Girls Football Program and the recent grassroots event with Manchester United," said Cools, who is sponsored by Adidas.
"Those events brought international and local players together to coach and inspire young talents. The energy on the ground was powerful.
"Moments like that matter. They give kids belief and show that the dream is real. If my journey can help send that message, I’m all in."
