Veteran midfielder Yamaguchi Hotaru has officially joined J2 club V-Varen Nagasaki from J1 champions Vissel Kobe, marking a significant shift as he aims to contribute to his new team's campaign for promotion to Japan's top football league. The announcement of his complete transfer on December 23, 2023, has garnered attention, considering Yamaguchi's decorated career and recent success with Vissel Kobe.
At 34 years old, Yamaguchi brings invaluable experience and leadership to V-Varen Nagasaki, having previously played for prominent clubs including Cerezo Osaka and Hannover 96, before settling at Vissel Kobe since 2019. His impressive track record features notable achievements, such as helping Vissel Kobe clinch the Emperor's Cup and win consecutive J1 league championships. His presence on the field is expected to fortify V-Varen Nagasaki's aspirations as they strive for their return to the J1 league after falling short of promotion last season, where they finished third.
Yamaguchi, who boasts 48 caps for the Japanese national team, expressed his excitement about joining V-Varen, stating, "V・ファーレン長崎の皆さん、この度ヴィッセル神戸から移籍してきました山口蛍です。J1昇格に向けて持てる力は全て出します！みんなで目標に向かって一丸となって、必ず昇格しましょう！" This declaration signifies his commitment to leaving no stone unturned to help his new club achieve their goals.
Throughout his previous tenure with Vissel Kobe, Yamaguchi played a pivotal role not only as a player but also as the team captain. His leadership was instrumental during their successful campaigns, where he guided the team through victories and challenges alike. Despite facing injuries this past season, which limited his participation, Yamaguchi remained steadfast, contributing to the team's achievements and reaffirming his dedication to the club’s objectives.
Reflecting on his time at Vissel Kobe, he stated, "ヴィッセル神戸のファン、サポーターの皆さん、今シーズンをもって6年間共にしたこのクラブを去る事にしました。6年間温かく見守って、サポートしてくれてありがとうございました。ヴィッセル神戸のリーグ3連覇とACL制覇を心より願っています。" These words resonate deeply with fans who witnessed his evolution as both a player and leader.
The transfer to V-Varen Nagasaki presents Yamaguchi with new opportunities and challenges as the club undergoes its second year with new management and the opening of their new stadium. Under the leadership of manager Takahiro Shimozuma, the team is determined to secure promotion to J1, and Yamaguchi’s joining is seen as a strategic move to bolster their prospects.
With the emergence of fresh talent and bolstered by the experience of seasoned players like Yamaguchi, V-Varen Nagasaki is focused on turning their aspirations of J1 promotion from dream to reality. The club is well-aware of the challenges they face but remains hopeful following their near-miss last season, when they lost to Vegalta Sendai during the playoff semifinals.
Yamaguchi's contribution on the field will no doubt be closely monitored, as fans and team officials alike anticipate his impact. The camaraderie and collective resilience he aims to instill could prove pivotal as V-Varen Nagasaki navigates the highly competitive J2 league.
Overall, this transfer not only highlights Yamaguchi's professional commitment but also signifies the strategic planning by V-Varen Nagasaki as they look to solidify their ambitions for top-tier football. Fans are eager to witness how the seasoned midfielder will blend with the team dynamics and his potential to lead the club back to the J1 league.
