Argentinos Signs Japanese Forward Ryoga Kida

Argentinos Juniors has made a historic move by signing Japanese forward Ryoga Kida, making him the third Japanese professional to play in Argentine football. The news follows the footsteps of Naohiro Takahara at Boca Juniors and Yusuke Kato at Huracán. Kida, an 18-year-old striker, will initially join the Argentinos Juniors Reserve team, bringing a new international dimension to the club.

Ryoga Kida’s Profile

Ryoga Kida, an 18-year-old forward, is set to become the third Japanese player in the history of Argentine male football. With 39 games, 10 goals, and two assists in his career, Kida joins Argentinos Juniors on a two-year loan from Nagoya, with an option to buy.

Other Argentinos Juniors Signings

Argentinos Juniors is bolstering its squad for the upcoming season, not only with Ryoga Kida but also with other notable signings. The team has secured players like Sebastián Prieto, Diego Rodríguez, Erik Godoy, Diego Barros, Fernando Meza, Nicolás Oroz, and Maxi Romero.

Naohiro Takahara’s Stint at Boca Juniors

Naohiro Takahara, the first Japanese forward in Argentine football, had a brief tenure at Boca Juniors in 2001 during Mauricio Macri’s presidency. Despite a short stay, Takahara left a mark with a goal in a 6-1 victory against Lanús.

Yusuke Kato’s Journey at Huracán

Yusuke Kato, hailing from Osaka, had a unique journey at Huracán. Arriving in 2004 at the age of 18, Kato played a crucial role in the team’s promotion to Primera División in 2007. However, his time at the club faced challenges, including a loan to Defensores de Belgrano and a subsequent contract termination due to a knee injury.

Argentinos Juniors’ signing of Ryoga Kida marks another chapter in the integration of Japanese talent into Argentine football. The club continues to strengthen its squad with both local and international players, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

For those unfamiliar with the teams and competitions mentioned, Argentinos Juniors is a renowned football club based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, competing in the top tier of Argentine football. The Liga Profesional is the top professional football division in Argentina, featuring intense competition among clubs striving for supremacy.