Kashima Antlers have announced that midfielder Ryotaro Araki will join Sint-Truidense VV in Belgium on a permanent transfer.
Araki returned to Kashima in 2025 and made 16 appearances, scoring once, last season.
Following the announcement, Araki commented:
"I have decided to join Sint-Truidense. I am delighted to have the opportunity to take on a new challenge abroad, which has been one of my biggest goals. I have spent six years with the Antlers since becoming a professional player. Although we faced many challenges along the way, I was incredibly proud and happy to have achieved the league title in the 2025 season together with my teammates, staff, and all the fans and supporters after giving everything until the very end. At the same time, I had always wanted to take on a challenge overseas after winning the league title, and this feeling played a major part in my decision. I will do my best to continue growing and to show everyone how much I have developed. I would be grateful for your continued support. I love the Antlers, and I will always continue to cheer for this club."
