Kaoru Mitoma (Japanese: 三笘 薫, Mitoma Kaoru; born 20 May 1997) is a Japanese professional footballer who plays as a left winger for Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League and the Japan national team. Celebrated for his explosive dribbling, vision, and agility, Mitoma has rapidly become one of the most electrifying attackers in European football.
From writing a thesis on dribbling at university to dazzling Premier League crowds, Mitoma’s journey is a blend of discipline, intellect, and athletic flair.
His Salary and Net Worth
How Much Does Kaoru Mitoma Earn in 2025?
As of the 2024–25 season, Kaoru Mitoma earns approximately £2.8 million annually, excluding performance-based bonuses. His recent contract extension in October 2023 binds him to Brighton & Hove Albion until 2027, reflecting his growing value to the club.
Kaoru Mitoma Net Worth in 2025
Mitoma’s net worth is estimated to be between $5 million and $7 million, boosted by:
Salary and match bonuses
Sponsorships with brands like Asics and DAZN Japan
Endorsement deals in Japan and the UK.
Bonuses from Premier League and international appearances
With a rising profile in both Europe and Asia, his financial value is expected to surge in the coming seasons.
Kaoru Mitoma Age and Height
How Old Is Kaoru Mitoma?
Kaoru Mitoma was born on 20 May 1997, which makes him 28 years old as of 2025. He is entering the prime years of his career, both physically and tactically.
Kaoru Mitoma Height and Physical Stats
Height: 1.78 m (5 feet 10 inches)
Weight: 72 kg (158 lbs)
Foot: Right
Style: Agile dribbler with low center of gravity and excellent acceleration
Mitoma’s build allows him to glide past defenders with ease, and his low center of gravity makes him a difficult player to dispossess.
Kaoru Mitoma’s Wife or Girlfriend
Is Kaoru Mitoma Married?
Yes, Kaoru Mitoma is married. While he keeps his personal life private, he tied the knot in July 2022 with his long-time girlfriend, a non-celebrity he dated during university. The wedding was reported by several Japanese outlets and celebrated among fans, though the couple prefers to stay away from the spotlight.
Does He Have Children?
As of mid-2025, no public reports confirm that Mitoma has children.
His Latest Career News
What’s New in Kaoru Mitoma’s Football Career in 2024–25?
Brighton Comeback in 2024–25
After missing the latter half of the 2023–24 season due to a back injury, Mitoma made a sensational return on 17 August 2024, scoring in a 3–0 victory against Everton.
He continued his form with another stunner against Chelsea in February, earning his second Premier League Goal of the Month Award.
International Duty
Mitoma represented Japan in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, coming off the bench in key knockout matches after recovering from injury. Despite his efforts, Japan exited the tournament in the quarter-finals.
His football career, net worth, age, height, salary, wife, family, and biography
Here is a complete biographical table for Marc-André ter Stegen, excluding links and references:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marc-André ter Stegen |
| Nickname | MATS, The Wall of Barcelona |
| Age | 33 years (as of 2025) |
| Height | 1.87 m (6 ft 2 in) |
| Weight | 85 kg (187 lbs) |
| Date of Birth | April 30, 1992 |
| Birth Place | Mönchengladbach, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany |
| Nationality | German |
| Religion | Christianity |
| College | Did not attend college (joined pro football early) |
| Turned Professional | 2010 (Borussia Mönchengladbach senior debut) |
| Professional Wins | Multiple domestic and international titles, including UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey |
| Highest Ranking | Consistently ranked among the top 5 goalkeepers globally |
| Position | Goalkeeper |
| Current Club | FC Barcelona |
| Jersey Number | 1 |
| Wife | Daniela Jehle |
| Children | 1 son (Ben Ter Stegen) |
| Father’s Name | Erich ter Stegen |
| Mother’s Name | Renate ter Stegen |
| Siblings | Jean-Marcel ter Stegen (older brother) |
| Languages Spoken | German, Spanish, English |
| Youth Club | Borussia Mönchengladbach Youth Academy |
| Germany Debut | May 26, 2012 |
| International Trophies | 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup |
| Major Club Trophies | UEFA Champions League, La Liga, Copa del Rey |
| Awards | Zamora Trophy (2022–23) |
| Captaincy | Captain of FC Barcelona (from August 2024) |
His Achievements
A Look at Kaoru Mitoma’s Career Achievements
Club Achievements
Kawasaki Frontale (Japan):
J1 League Champion (2020)
Emperor’s Cup Winner (2020) – Scored in the final
Brighton & Hove Albion:
Premier League Goal of the Month (August 2023, February 2025)
Most goals in a single EPL season by a Japanese player (2022–23)
FA Cup standout (winning goal vs Liverpool, 2023)
International Achievements:
Represented Japan in:
2022 FIFA World Cup
2023 AFC Asian Cup
2018 Asian Games (U-23)
2019 Toulon Tournament
Mitoma also made headlines in the 2022 World Cup against Spain team, assisting Ao Tanaka’s controversial but crucial goal that helped Japan top their group.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kaoru Mitoma
What number does Kaoru Mitoma wear?
He wears #22 for Brighton & Hove Albion and #9 for the Japan national team.
What did Kaoru Mitoma study in university?
Mitoma studied Physical Education at the University of Tsukuba, where he wrote a thesis on the biomechanics of dribbling.
Which clubs has Mitoma played for?
Kawasaki Frontale (Japan)
Union SG (Belgium, on loan from Brighton)
Brighton & Hove Albion (England)
What makes Kaoru Mitoma special?
His dribbling intelligence, combined with speed, vision, and finishing, sets him apart. His academic understanding of dribbling mechanics adds a unique dimension to his game.
Is Mitoma the best Japanese player in Europe right now?
Many analysts and fans regard him as Japan’s most exciting export since Shinji Kagawa, with the potential to become the country’s best European-based player.
Final Thoughts
Kaoru Mitoma is more than just a pacey winger—he is a thoughtful, grounded athlete with a deep understanding of his craft. Whether he’s dazzling defenders in the Premier League, creating history for Japan, or continuing his meteoric rise, Mitoma represents the perfect blend of brain and talent.
With his return to full fitness in 2025, fans and analysts alike are watching what could be the best season of his career so far.
