On January 6, 2024, Kashima Antlers announced the complete transfer of striker Leo Ceará from Cerezo Osaka, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Brazilian footballer. Ceará, who will don the number 9 jersey at his new club, expressed his joy about joining the prestigious J-League team.
Having entered the Japanese football scene with FC Ryukyu back in 2016, Ceará eventually made his way to the J-League's Yokohama F. Marinos. After two successful seasons where he scored 10 and 11 goals respectively, he helped lead the team to league victory. His time at Cerezo Osaka starting from 2023 saw him score 12 goals, and he became the second-highest scorer last season with 21 goals, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's most prolific attackers.
Reflecting on his transfer, Ceará said, "I am very happy to join Kashima Antlers. I look forward to meeting everyone and fighting together to achieve the club's goals!" This excitement to join the club resonates as he aims to contribute significantly under the guidance of new head coach Atsuhiro鬼木.
During his time at Cerezo Osaka, Ceará achieved remarkable success, scoring consistently for four consecutive years, marking double digits each season. He has accumulated impressive statistics, with 54 goals across 129 J-League matches, showcasing his formidable scoring ability. His contributions not only reflected personal growth but also emphasized his role as a key player within the team.
Following the announcement of his move, Ceará also took time to express his gratitude to his former club, stating, "I must say goodbye to everyone at Cerezo Osaka who gave me this wonderful opportunity. The memories from these two years will remain in my heart for life. Thank you to everyone who supported me and to the fans. I appreciate everything and will always support you!" This farewell highlights his emotional connections formed during his stay at the club and his appreciation for the support received from fans and teammates alike.
Ceará’s career has been defined by hard work and success. He has previously played for numerous clubs, including EC Vitória and AD Confianca, before making his mark primarily within the J-League. Now at Kashima Antlers, he faces the challenge of continuing his impressive goal-scoring run as the team aspires for greater achievements this season.
Fans of Kishima Antlers eagerly await Ceará's contributions, hopeful for another remarkable season filled with goals and excitement, reinvigorated by the talent he brings from his experiences across different teams within the league.