This Seiya Maikuma biography chronicles the impressive professional journey of the Japanese right-back. Known for his exceptional stamina, overlapping attacking runs, and defensive reliability, Maikuma has established himself as a highly effective modern full-back. Currently plying his trade with AZ Alkmaar in the Dutch Eredivisie, his seamless transition to European football highlights his tactical intelligence and adaptability.

Maikuma's career trajectory underscores the immense value of the Japanese university football system. After completing his higher education, he rapidly ascended the ranks of the J-League, starring for V-Varen Nagasaki before making a significant impact with Cerezo Osaka. His standout performances in Japan rightfully earned him a spot in the J1 League Best XI and regular call-ups to the Samurai Blue.

As of 2026, Maikuma remains a vital asset for both AZ Alkmaar and the Japanese national team. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining defensive solidity makes him an ideal fit for the fast-paced nature of the Eredivisie. Football analysts and supporters frequently commend his consistent work rate and professional dedication on the right flank.

👤 Profile at a Glance

Full Name Seiya Maikuma
Date of Birth October 16, 1997
Age 28 years old
Birthplace Nagasaki, Japan
Nationality Japanese
Profession Professional Footballer
Height 5 ft 10 in (1.79 m)
Education Momoyama Gakuin University (2020)
Marital Status Single
Net Worth $3 Million (2026)

🎓 Education

Momoyama Gakuin University (2016–2020)
Maikuma refined his tactical awareness and physical endurance during his four years of collegiate football at Momoyama Gakuin University, graduating before turning professional.

💼 Career

Seiya Maikuma officially commenced his professional career in 2020 when he signed with his hometown club, V-Varen Nagasaki, in the J2 League. He made an immediate impact, marking his debut season with a crucial league goal and cementing his position as the team's primary right-back. Over two highly productive seasons, his consistent performances drew significant interest from top-flight clubs.

In December 2021, Maikuma secured a major transfer to J1 League side Cerezo Osaka. His time at Cerezo was incredibly successful, as he quickly adapted to the heightened pace of the first division. During the 2023 campaign, his exceptional attacking contributions and defensive stability earned him a prestigious spot in the 2023 J1 League Best XI, signaling his readiness for a bigger stage.

Capitalizing on his outstanding domestic form, Maikuma signed a four-year contract with Dutch Eredivisie club AZ Alkmaar in June 2024. He faced the immense challenge of adapting to European football head-on, seamlessly integrating into the squad. His performances during the 2024-2025 season were stellar, earning him recognition in the Eredivisie Team of the Season.

Throughout the 2025-2026 season, Maikuma continued to be a crucial component of AZ Alkmaar's setup. Despite suffering minor injury setbacks early in 2026, he recovered to feature prominently in both domestic league fixtures and the UEFA Conference League. His tactical discipline and overlapping runs consistently created scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Internationally, Maikuma received his first senior call-up to the Japanese national team in August 2023. He made a highly impressive debut in a friendly victory against Turkey. Heading into 2026, he remains a highly reliable option for manager Hajime Moriyasu, providing essential depth and quality to the Samurai Blue's defensive line.

🏠 Personal Life

Born and raised in Nagasaki, Japan, Seiya Maikuma developed a deep connection with his local community, which made his professional debut for V-Varen Nagasaki particularly special. He is known for his immense dedication and professional maturity, traits heavily fostered during his university years.

Off the pitch, Maikuma leads a quiet and disciplined lifestyle. Moving to the Netherlands required significant cultural adjustment, but he embraced the challenge by actively learning Dutch and English to enhance communication with his teammates at AZ Alkmaar.

He is highly regarded by his peers for his humble demeanor and relentless work ethic. Maikuma frequently expresses his gratitude for the collegiate football system in Japan, viewing it as the perfect incubator for late-blooming athletes who require additional time to mature physically and tactically.

🏆 Achievements & Awards

  • Eredivisie Team of the Season (2024-2025)
  • J1 League Best XI (2023)
  • Represented Japan at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup

💬 Notable Quotes

The transition from university football to Europe was massive, but you have to trust your tactical foundation and never stop running.

— Seiya Maikuma

Playing for AZ Alkmaar in European competitions is a privilege. The speed of the game here forces you to constantly evolve.

— Seiya Maikuma

Representing the Samurai Blue is the ultimate honor for any player, and I want to prove that late bloomers can still reach the very top.

— Seiya Maikuma

❓ People Also Ask

He is famous for his exceptional performances as a right-back for Cerezo Osaka and his successful transfer to AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie.
Born on October 16, 1997, Seiya Maikuma is 28 years old as of 2026.
His estimated net worth is around $3 Million, backed by his professional contracts in Japan and the Netherlands.
He was born in Nagasaki, Japan.
He maintains a private personal life and is currently reported to be single.
His biggest achievements include being named to the J1 League Best XI and the Eredivisie Team of the Season.