Japanese football analyst and popular J.League blogger J3 Plus has heaped praise on Dion Cools, the Malaysian international defender, who recently completed his move to Cerezo Osaka. In an in-depth post, J3 Plus graded the transfer as an “A++” level signing, calling it a very smart deal by the J1 League side.
Cools joins Cerezo from Thai powerhouse Buriram United in the second leg of the 2025 season, after spending two and a half successful seasons in Thailand. During his time with the “Thunder Castle”, he played a key role in helping the club secure an impressive eight domestic titles.
“This is undoubtedly a very good reinforcement. Dion Cools is a current Malaysian national team player and previously worked under Arthur Papas at Buriram United.”
“From match footage, it’s clear he possesses technical finesse and remains extremely composed on the ball. He excels in medium-range passing and can also carry the ball while dribbling. Reports suggest he can operate as a centre-back (CB), right-sided full-back (SB), or right-sided half (SH)—though his style fits best as a centre-back. His only slight limitation may be his lack of top-end pace.”
Cerezo Osaka, who typically operate with a three-man defensive system, are expected to utilize Cools either as a central defender in a back three, or as the right-sided centre-back in the same formation. There’s also a possibility that the Malaysian could be deployed as a right wing-back, thanks to his ball-carrying ability.
Standing at 185 cm, Cools brings notable physicality, particularly if used in wide roles. His adaptability and experience will be major assets for Cerezo, especially as they chase a strong finish in the second half of the 2025 campaign.
“As a Malaysian player, he is being placed in a role that suits his strengths, which is a major positive,” concluded J3 Plus.
Dion Cools’ arrival in the J1 League not only marks a new chapter in his club career but also signals the growing reputation of Malaysian footballers on the Asian stage. With high praise from Japanese analysts and a proven championship pedigree, Cools is expected to be an integral part of Cerezo Osaka’s defensive line moving forward.
