On March 10, 2025, Vissel Kobe announced the full transfer of midfielder Yuya Nakasaka to FC BASARA HYOGO, marking the end of his long tenure with the J1 club.
Nakasaka, born on August 5, 1997, hails from Tokushima Prefecture and has been with Vissel Kobe since he joined their U-15 team at the age of 13. This transfer to FC BASARA HYOGO, which plays in the Kansai Soccer League Division 1, follows Nakasaka’s last season with Vissel Kobe, where he did not make any league appearances during the past two seasons.
Throughout his time at Vissel Kobe, Nakasaka has accumulated impressive statistics, making 65 appearances and scoring six goals in the J1 League, along with six goals from 29 League Cup appearances and one goal from 15 Emperor’s Cup matches. He also had loan stints to CF Peralada, playing three matches with no goals, and to Kyoto Sanga F.C., where he played seven matches, netting one goal.
Reflecting on his departure, Nakasaka expressed gratitude to Vissel Kobe, stating, "今シーズンをもってヴィッセル神戸を離れることになりました。ここ数年、チームに貢献することができず、クラブ、ファン・サポーターの皆さまに申し訳なく思っています。" ("I will leave Vissel Kobe at the end of this season. I have not been able to contribute to the team for the past few years, and I feel sorry for the club and the fans and supporters.") This quote encapsulates the emotional weight of his exit, as he has been with the club for 15 years, making many memories along the way.
Nakasaka doesn’t dwell on the past, though, as he shifts his focus to his new beginnings at FC BASARA HYOGO. He remarked, "2025シーズンからFC BASARA HYOGOに加入する事になりました、中坂勇哉です。自分を必要としてくれたクラブのために、結果で応えたいと思います。JFL昇格に向けて頑張りますので、応援よろしくお願いします！" ("I will join FC BASARA HYOGO from the 2025 season. I want to respond with results for the club who needed me. I'm going to work hard for promotion to the JFL, so please support me!") His determination to succeed at his new club is clear, and he aims to help them achieve higher accolades.
FC BASARA HYOGO finished fifth last season (2024) within the Kansai League Division 1, the equivalent of J5. Under the management of the organization Meisters, which was established to oversee the club, there has been exciting potential for growth. Notably, former Japan representative Shinji Okazaki serves as director, indicating aspirations for upward mobility and competitive success.
Nakasaka's move is significant not only for him personally but also for FC BASARA HYOGO, as they look to establish themselves as contenders for promotion to the Japan Football League (JFL). With his experience at the highest levels of Japanese football, Nakasaka is expected to provide leadership and talent to the club.
Given his extensive background, including key moments such as performing under pressure and adapting to different playing styles, Nakasaka’s skill set will be invaluable for FC BASARA HYOGO. The upcoming season will be pivotal not only for his career but also for the aspirations of the club he now calls home.
Fans of both teams eagerly await to see how Nakasaka will perform at FC BASARA HYOGO, with hopes high for promotion and competitive results. His dedication to his craft and commitment to the team will be watched closely as the new season gets underway.
Overall, Yuya Nakasaka’s transfer is more than just a change of clubs; it’s the next chapter of his football story. With his history at Vissel Kobe and now his fresh start at FC BASARA HYOGO, he’s poised for what many hope will be continued success and perhaps even greater accomplishments within Japanese football's tiers.