BIRMINGHAM, England - Zion Suzuki became the first Japanese goalkeeper to play in England's top-flight Monday as he made his Premier League debut for Aston Villa in a 1-0 loss to defending champions Arsenal.
The 24-year-old Samurai Blue keeper started the first home game of the season at Villa Park less than two weeks after transferring from Italian side Parma.
"I want to adapt to the intensity and pace (of the league) so I can contribute to the team," Suzuki said following the match.
After a scoreless first half, the new signing conceded in the 59th minute on Bukayo Saka's close-range effort.
The debutant goalkeeper was solid the rest of the way, preventing the visitors from adding to their lead.
He produced a fine save to deny Kai Havertz in a one-on-one in the 75th minute, although the offside flag was raised, with the Germany international expressing shock at having his shot stopped.
The 190-centimeter Suzuki, who was born in the United States to a Ghanaian father and Japanese mother, drew applause from the home fans for his accurate distribution, which repeatedly helped create attacking opportunities.
Suzuki attracted significant attention in the transfer market after his strong World Cup campaign for Japan at this summer's World Cup in North America, where the Samurai Blue exited in the round of 32.
A potential move to back-to-back Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain reportedly fell through at the last minute.
But Suzuki chose Birmingham-based Aston Villa as his destination in one of the world's top leagues in a deal reportedly worth 35 million euros ($41 million).
"I wanted to play for this team. I'll keep working hard for the next match," he said.
