Mito HollyHock have announced the dismissal of manager Daisuke Kimori.
Kimori took charge of the team this year and recorded two wins, three draws and seven defeats in the MEIJI YASUDA J1 LEAGUE through Matchweek 12.
Following his departure, Kimori commented through the club:
“To everyone involved with Mito HollyHock, it has meant so much to me to share both the good times and the difficult moments with you and to fight alongside you. I'm deeply disappointed that we couldn't end our losing streak or pick up more points, and I'm truly sorry. I want to thank the players who gave everything for Mito, the coaching, medical and front office staff who supported them, and our incredible fans and supporters who created such a fantastic atmosphere at the stadium, no matter what.
“I had the opportunity to lead Mito HollyHock in J1 thanks to our partners, local authorities, former players and everyone who has helped build this club over the years. I'm grateful to every one of you. Thank you so much. Finally, I hope you'll continue to come to the stadium in great numbers and get behind the players as they fight to stay in J1.”
On the same day, Mito also announced the appointment of Football Director Naoki Mori as their new first-team manager, succeeding Kimori.
Mori had previously served as Mito's manager until the end of 2025.
Upon his appointment, Mori commented:
“As Football Director, I'm responsible for building a competitive team, so I'm deeply sorry and frustrated that we've reached the point where a change of manager was necessary. I also want to thank Daisuke Kimori for taking on such a difficult challenge in the club's first J1 season and for everything he did to help us move forward. It took 31 years of hard work and perseverance from so many people to bring Mito HollyHock to J1. Those who kept the club going, carried its history forward and stood by it through difficult times made this possible. I know just how hard it is to compete at this level and stay here.
“But for the future of the club and everyone involved, we have to find a way to stay in J1, whatever it takes. We'll give everything we have in every match, keep fighting, keep running and see the job through. The players and staff will stand together and never give up until the final whistle. I hope you'll all keep fighting alongside us until the very end.”
