Cerezo Osaka have announced that defender Seinosuke Kimura of Ritsumeikan University will join the club for the 2026/27 season (January 2027). The club also announced that he has been registered as a 2026/27 JFA/J.League Special Designated Player.
Kimura is from Hyogo Prefecture and previously played in the Cerezo Osaka academy. The club describes him as a player who uses his 186cm height well in the air and is capable of delivering accurate passes with his left foot. He also organises the defensive line well, works hard for the team and is versatile enough to play at full-back.
Kimura commented through the club:
“I’m truly honoured to have the chance to wear the cherry blossom crest again and represent the club I love—the club that saw potential in me when I was in primary school and helped me develop for seven years. I could never have come this far on my own. I’m sincerely grateful to my family, who have always been closest to me, to all the coaches who have taught me so much, to the teammates who have pushed me to improve, and to everyone who has supported me along the way.
I know the road ahead will not be easy. That’s why I’ll draw strength from everything I’ve experienced so far, believe in myself and keep taking on new challenges. I still have a lot to learn, but I’ll stay humble and work hard every day to become a player worthy of wearing the Cerezo colours. Thank you for your continued support. Finally, to everyone at Hanasaka Club and everyone who supported me during my academy days: I’ll show you how much I’ve grown. I’m home!”
