Tokyo International News Agency

J3 League side Matsumoto Yamaga FC officially announced on the 19th the permanent transfer signing of Brazilian forward Wellington, who previously starred for clubs such as Shonan Bellmare, Avispa Fukuoka, and Vissel Kobe. The return of the powerhouse striker, who has left a lasting impression across several Japanese teams, has sparked surprise and excitement among supporters. Now 38 years old, Wellington has notched 81 career goals in the J.League, making his mark against renowned defenders with his commanding physical presence and exceptional aerial prowess. In a statement released by the club, he expressed his motivation for this new chapter: "Japan is my favorite country. I am truly looking forward to playing at Alwin." Following the surprise announcement, "Wellington" immediately trended across social media in Japan. Fans voiced their astonishment, with comments like "I never thought I'd see the day Wellington comes to Matsumoto" and "Can...

Vissel Kobe announced on the 9th that Brazilian forward Érik has joined the club on a permanent transfer from FC Machida Zelvia. The news sparked a warm wave of welcome across social media, with fans greeting him enthusiastically and quickly turning his arrival into a trending topic online. Through the club, Érik delivered a passionate message to his new supporters: "To all the fans and supporters: I want you to fight alongside us. Sing, fight, and push the team forward from the very first second to the last." He also penned a heartfelt farewell message spanning 1,500 characters to Machida, earning widespread admiration for his class, humility, and professionalism. Vissel Kobe already boasts a formidable attacking lineup, and supporters are eagerly debating tactical lineups and the prospect of Érik linking up with star forwards such as Yuya Osako, Yoshinori Muto, and Anderson Lopes. Érik will wear the number 94 shirt, and anticipation is running high among fans looking ahead ...

Sanfrecce Hiroshima announced on the 30th that Japan national team goalkeeper Keisuke Osako (27) has left the squad to complete procedures and preparations for a transfer to an overseas club. Reports indicate that Belgian First Division powerhouse Royale Union Saint-Gilloise—a club where Japan national team midfielder Kaoru Mitoma previously played—has emerged as his destination, with final details currently being finalized for a loan deal. A product of Hiroshima's youth academy, Osako established himself as the team's undisputed starting goalkeeper, making a vital contribution last season by leading the club to the fewest goals conceded in the league. As he continues to build his career with the Japan national team, this European move comes at a prime time in his career. Following the sudden announcement of his departure, social media was flooded with messages of gratitude and encouragement from fans, with comments such as "The time has finally come," "I hope he...

Urawa Reds announced on December 10 that former Japan international midfielder Shoya Nakajima (31) will leave the club at the end of the season following the expiration of his contract. The departure of the "fantasista," who once wore the legendary number 10 shirt for the national team and captivated fans with his genius technique, has sent shockwaves through the supporter community. Through the club, Nakajima reflected on his time at Urawa, admitting, "Honestly, I had absolutely no intention of returning to Japan as a football player..." Despite this, whenever he stepped onto the pitch, he exerted an overwhelming presence, thrilling the stadium with his intricate dribbling and superb ball control. Supporters have flooded social media with regret over his departure, with many saying, "Just having him on the pitch made the game exciting," and "He was a rare player who could truly make a difference." On the other hand, opinions on his overall contr...