The Knight in the Area (2012): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2012, The Knight in the Area is an animation and comedy series.

What it’s about. Kakeru and Suguru are brothers who both have a flaming passion for soccer. However, while Suguru becomes a rising star in the Japanese youth soccer system, Kakeru decides to take on a managerial role after struggling on the field. But due to a cruel twist of fate, Kakeru ends up reevaluating the role he has chosen. In hopes of one day being able to enter the World Cup by becoming a member of the national team, Kakeru trains harder than anyone else. He isn’t alone in this quest for glory, though. Kakeru's childhood friend, Nana, is a soccer prodigy of her own, with the wicked nickname “Little Witch”. She is a top-ranked player and is already playing for Nadeshiko Japan, the Japanese women’s national team. Nana's success gives Kakeru the extra push he needs to reach for his goals.

Who’s in it. The Knight in the Area stars Shizuka Itoh as Nana Mishima (voice), Yuko Sanpei as Kakeru Aizawa (voice), Jun Fukuyama as Suguru Aizawa (voice) and Akira Ishida as Ryuuchi Araki (voice), among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.4/10, The Knight in the Area has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Knight in the Area page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Knight in the Area tend to enjoy Rick and Morty, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Attack on Titan and Attack on Titan: No Regrets.