Yu Hirakawa

is a Japanese footballer who plays as a forward for club Bristol City and the Japan national team.

Early life Hirakawa was born in Kashima, Saga. He played youth football for Meirin JSC, FC Revona and Saga Higashi High School. He played university football for Yamanashi Gakuin University.

Career

Machida Zelvia In September 2021, it was announced that Hirakawa would join J2 League club Machida Zelvia as a designated special player, whilst playing for the football team of Yamanashi Gakuin University. He made his debut for Machida on 5 December 2021 against Albirex Niigata. He scored his first goal for the club on 13 March 2022, scoring in the 20th minute against Fagiano Okayama. He was part of the Machida team that won the 2023 J2 League.

In April 2024, Hirakawa won his first Monthly MVP award for his performances at the start of the 2024 J1 League season.

Bristol City On 9 July 2024, Hirakawa joined EFL Championship club Bristol City on a season-long loan.

On 24 February 2025, Hirakawa joined City on a permanent deal until June 2028. On 9 August, he made his debut for the club in a 4–1 win against Sheffield United in the league.

Hull City (loan) On 19 January 2026, Hirakawa joined fellow Championship club Hull City on loan until the end of the season. He made his debut the following day, in the 3–0 win away to Preston North End.

On 23 May 2026, Hirakawa's deflected cross was converted by Oli McBurnie to secure promotion for Hull City to the Premier League.

International career

On 4 April 2024, Hirakawa was called up to the Japan U23 squad for the 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup.

Career statistics Club + Appearances and goals by club, season and competition

Division!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals

2021 J2 League

2022 J2 League

2023 J2 League

2024 J1 League

Bristol City (loan) 2024–25 EFL Championship

Bristol City 2025–26 EFL Championship

Hull City (loan) 2025–26

Individual J1 League Monthly MVP: February/March 2024