was a Japanese football player and manager. A defender, he played for Toyo Industries and made three appearances for the Japan national team.
Club career Imanishi was born in Hiroshima on January 12, 1941. After graduating from Tokyo University of Education, he joined his local club Toyo Industries (later Mazda) in 1963. In 1965, Toyo Industries joined new league Japan Soccer League. The club won the champions for four years in a row (1965–1968). The club also won 1965, 1967 and 1969 Emperor's Cup. He retired in 1969. He played 42 games in the league. He was named as part of the Best Eleven in 1966.
International career In December 1966, Imanishi was selected for the Japan national team prior to the 1966 Asian Games. On December 10, he debuted against India. He played three games for Japan.Japan National Football Team Database
Coaching career After retirement, Imanishi became a manager for Mazda as Teruo Nimura's successor in 1984. This season was the first season the club was relegated to Division 2. He promoted the club to Division 1 in 1986. In 1987, he resigned as manager and was succeeded by Hans Ooft. However, the club was relegated to Division 2 again in 1988, and Imanishi returned to the club. Imanishi promoted the club to Division 1 in 1991 and he resigned in 1992. From 1994, he worked for the Japan Football Association until 2002. He also served as president at FC Gifu from 2008 to 2012.
Death Imanishi died from pneumonia in Hiroshima on April 16, 2026, at the age of 85.サンフレッチェ広島初代総監督 今西和男さんの訃報に接して
Career statistics
Club + Appearances and goals by club, season and competitionClubSeasonLeagueDivisionAppsGoalsToyo Industries1965JSL Division 19019661401967140196850196900Total420
International + Appearances and goals by national team and yearNational teamYearAppsGoalsJapan196630Total30
Honours Japan Soccer League Best Eleven: 1966
References
External links
Japan National Football Team Database