Matsumoto Yamaga FC has made significant moves as the 2024 season approaches, with two contract renewals and new player acquisitions aimed at strengthening the team's performance. On the 5th of this month, the club announced they had secured new contracts for defender Daiki Higuchi and midfielder Kazuma Yamaguchi. They also revealed the temporary transfer of Brazilian defender Thiago Santana from Concordia, Brazil, to bolster their defensive lineup.
Higuchi, hailing from Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, showed promising potential during his debut season with Yamaga FC, where he not only featured as an aggressive attacking side back but also made notable contributions on the scoreboard. The 23-year-old had 6 goals and performed solidly during the playoff rounds to help the club clinch promotion to J2. “For the 2025 season, I will continue to play and fight for Matsumoto Yamaga FC with all my heart. My goal is to see everyone at the club smiling at the end of this season; let’s aim high together!” commented Higuchi, demonstrating his commitment to the club’s aspirations.
Meanwhile, Yamaguchi, 28, brings considerable experience from playing for teams like Kashima Antlers and Mito Hollyhock before joining Matsumoto. After spending 2022 and part of 2023 on loan at FC Machida Zelvia, he returned mid-season and ended his 2024 campaign contributing 3 goals across 25 matches. “This season, I will also be playing for Yamaga! This year is the one where we must strive for promotion,” stated Yamaguchi, underlining his ambitions for success.
To add to their roster, Matsumoto Yamaga FC has signed 26-year-old Thiago Santana on loan, who stands at 188cm tall. Santana has experience playing for several clubs domestically and even Ukraine's Vorskla, providing much-needed vigor to the defense. “I am happy to take on this new challenge at Matsumoto Yamaga FC. I will give my absolute best every day during training and games. I believe if we unite, we can achieve our goals together,” expressed Santana. His presence is expected to impact the team's defensive strength significantly.
Yamaga's strategic moves continue with the loan agreement of midfielder Seira Ishiyama from Albirex Niigata. The 18-year-old is set to develop with Matsumoto until January 31, 2026. Ishiyama gained valuable experience last season, helping his team reach the semi-finals of the Levain Cup where he shined by scoring his first professional goal. “I am determined to deliver solid results during my time at Matsumoto to show my future potential for Albirex Niigata,” stated Ishiyama, demonstrating his eagerness to make his mark.
Adding to the mix, veteran defender Yuya Hashiuchi announced his retirement at the season’s conclusion and will step up as the Roll Model Coach for the Matsumoto Yamaga FC Academy starting next season. Reflecting on his lengthy career, he acknowledged all those who supported him, reaffirming his commitment to continue contributing to the club's youth development. “I decided to retire after much contemplation, as I felt I could not meet the expectations set for me and would not do justice to the team at this stage. I am thankful to everyone who supported me throughout these 19 years. I will start my second career as a coach, carrying forward my core values of humility, gratitude, and ambition,” Hashiuchi said, which highlights his dedication to fostering the next generation.
The excitement surrounding these changes is palpable, as the management and fans anticipate what these fresh faces will bring to the lineup. Matsumoto Yamaga FC aspires to move up the ranks and make significant strides this season, echoing the collective ambitions of players and coaches alike. Each renewal and new addition signals the determination of the club to write their success story and claim their rightful place within Japan's competitive soccer scene.