DF Nakayama Joins Red Star Belgrade on Permanent Transfer from FC Machida Zelvia

FC Machida Zelvia have announced that defender Yuta Nakayama will join Serbian side Red Star Belgrade on a permanent transfer.
 
Nakayama had been with Machida since 2024 and made three appearances in the MEIJI YASUDA J1 LEAGUE this season, scoring one goal.
 
Nakayama commented through the club:
 
“I’ve decided to leave FC Machida Zelvia and take on another challenge overseas. I had no hesitation about this decision. Given my current situation and everything I had built at Machida, staying was certainly an option. Even so, I felt this was my last chance to challenge myself overseas, so I decided that now was the time to take it.
 
When I returned to Japan, I decided to break down everything I had built up and rebuild myself from scratch. Machida was the club I chose as part of that process. I came here to challenge myself. At this club, I was able to learn and experience so much, both as a footballer and as a person. I am where I am today thanks to President Fujita, my teammates, the staff, everyone connected with the club, and all the fans and supporters who have always backed me so passionately. Above all, I’m truly grateful to FC Machida Zelvia for understanding my decision and supporting me as I take on this challenge overseas. I will never forget the way the club backed me and encouraged me to take this step.
 
This move overseas is a challenge to take the player and person I rebuilt at Machida to the next level. My life has always been about taking on challenges. I’ll never be satisfied with where I am, and I’ll keep taking each step I need to reach my goals. The time I spent at Machida, everyone I met and the experiences I gained here will always be precious to me. I was given so much, and I’m truly grateful. I’ll carry that gratitude with me and continue challenging myself in my own way at my next club. To everyone connected with FC Machida Zelvia, thank you so much.”