From Soccer Interpreter to TV Actor — Florian Dabadi’s New Chapter in Japan

The untold stories of “Torrice Japan” that can only be told now

“Usually I’m the one doing interviews, so it’s nice to be on the other side. Please write something interesting (laughs),”

The tall, handsome man who started with this light jab is Florent Dabadie, who just turned 50 in Japan. You might recognize him as the interpreter for Philippe Troussier (70), who coached the Japan national team during the 2002 World Cup co-hosted by Japan and South Korea.

In ’98, when he was 24, Dabadie became Troussier’s interpreter and personal assistant, quickly drawing attention by giving instructions to players with more gestures than the coach himself. Although his Japanese was still shaky at the time, he managed with his passion and cleverness, helping Japan reach the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in history. Dabadie now reveals some behind-the-scenes stories of “Troussier Japan” that he can talk about only now.

“Philippe tends to say things too directly when he’s stressed. Some players surely got hurt by that. But that’s normal overseas. Bridging two very different cultures was a fun mission.”

There were rumors of swear words flying behind the bench, but Dabadie didn’t deny them, instead flashing a smile: “It’s part of the interpreter’s challenge to turn those into proper Japanese.”

He also touched on the controversial omission of Shunsuke Nakamura (47) from the World Cup roster.

“I want people to understand that Philippe really cared about Shunsuke. But at the time, the national team’s formation didn’t need a playmaker. Philippe tried to convince him, saying, ‘You could play on the left side,’ but it was difficult. He agonized until the very end.”

After the World Cup, Dabadie’s appearances in media decreased sharply, but he has actually continued living in Japan and obtained permanent residency in 2010. He has even appeared twice in NHK morning dramas.

The first was the 2005 drama “Fight,” playing Pierre Peron, who marries a woman played by Ayako Kawahara (54) and moves to France. The second was the 2020 drama “Yell,” again as a character named Pierre, this time an art critic. His role even trended on social media on the day of broadcast.

“I like acting! But apparently, I don’t have much talent for it (laughs). I think I’m done with acting now. Oh, but if an offer comes, I might consider it depending on the script.”

When asked about his future goals, he expressed his overflowing love for Japan.

“I love Japan, and I often travel during my time off. Recently, I visited the ‘Grantowa’ art museum in Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture, where I tried tea and Japanese paper-making. The Tenshaen garden, a famous spot in Uwajima, Ehime, was also amazing. Out of all 47 prefectures, I’ve only yet to visit Tottori and Akita. I want to visit them soon.”

Though he’s now a refined “ikemen-uncle” (handsome older man), Dabadie’s passion and cleverness remain the same as during the 2002 World Cup days.

The July 4 issue of “FRIDAY” (combined July 18 & 25 issue) and the paid version “FRIDAY GOLD” include candid discussions by Dabadie about the challenges facing “Moriyasu Japan” and surprising updates on his current work.

For more details and multiple photos, check here ↓

From “FRIDAY” July 18–25, 2025 combined issue.