Renofa yamaguchi FC announced today that longtime head coach Genki Nakayama will depart following the 2025 season, bringing an end to his meaningful 15-year association with the club.
Nakayama has been instrumental in renofa’s progression from a semi-professional team to its current standing in the J2 division, serving as both a player and coach during that climb.
The outgoing manager expressed regret at not achieving more consistent results for the club’s supporters, marking a reflective moment as the team looks toward its future.
Renofa Yamaguchi FC announced today that head coach Genki Nakayama will step down following the 2025 season. The decision marks the end of a significant era for the club, as Nakayama has been a key figure both as a player and a coach during its rise through the Japanese football leagues.
Nakayama, born September 15, 1981, in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, holds a JFA Pro License. His career began as a player with Takaragaoka High School, followed by stints with Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Consadole Sapporo, and Shonan Bellmare before returning to Renofa Yamaguchi FC as a player from 2011 to 2012.
His coaching journey began with Renofa Yamaguchi FC in 2013 as the top team’s head coach. He then transitioned to lead the club’s U-18 team from 2014 to 2018. Nakayama served as a top team coach from 2019 until May 2023, when he again took the helm as head coach. He continued in a coaching role with the top team from May 2023 through June 2025, before resuming his duties as head coach.
In a statement released by the club, Nakayama expressed his regret at not delivering more consistent results for the team’s supporters. “I apologize from the bottom of my heart for not being able to show you the battles you deserve, no matter the circumstances,” he said. This announcement comes as teams often evaluate performance and strategize for future seasons.
Nakayama reflected on his 15-year association with Renofa Yamaguchi FC, beginning as a player when the club was still a semi-professional team. He highlighted the club’s progression through the Japan Football League (JFL), J3, and J2 divisions, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the team as its coach. “All of this was thanks to the support of everyone who has continued to support the team,” he stated. “These 15 years have been irreplaceable for me.”
He extended his thanks to partner companies, the 19 municipalities within Yamaguchi Prefecture, dedicated fans, volunteers, players, staff, and all those who have supported Renofa Yamaguchi FC. “Your existence has always pushed me forward,” Nakayama added. He concluded by expressing his hope for the club’s continued success and the bright future of its players. “I sincerely hope that Renofa Yamaguchi FC will continue to be loved by the people of the prefecture, achieve further development, and have a brilliant future for its players.”
“Thank you very much for the 15 years,” Nakayama concluded.
