PETALING JAYA: From Lisbon to Iskandar Puteri, Takahiro Kunimoto could dazzle the Super League and the AFC Champions League for Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT)
According to Transfermarkt, the Japanese playmaker will be the latest signing of the club, replacing Argentinian midfielder Leandro Velasquez, who is out with an injury till the end of the season.
The 26-year-old played for Portuguese club Casa Pia in the first division but is known for his time in South Korea where he played for sides like Gyeognam and Jeonbuk Hyundai.
He was a popular figure in Jeonbuk when he won two league titles in 2020 and 2021 and the Korean FA Cup in 2020.
Kunimoto’s addition would surely boost the club’s playing squad for the AFC Champions League.
JDT have not officially announced the move yet but released a teaser with Japan-inspired motives on their social media accounts.
He will join other foreigners like Brazilian strikers Diogo Santo, Heberty Fernandes and Bergson Da Silva, Argentinian striker Fernando Forestieri, Spanish winger Juan Muniz, Filipino wingback Oscar Arribas, Indonesian centreback Jordi Amat and Australian defender Shane Lowry.
JDT will next take on Kelantan in the Malaysia Cup round of 16 first leg game at Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru today.
Kunimoto may not make his bow but JDT have the firepower to annihilate the Red Warriors.
That sentiment may be shared by many and even Kelantan coach Alberto Vera agreed that his side is no match for JDT’s quality.
“It will not be an easy game that’s for sure. It’s two legs, so we will see how it goes. As a coach, I can’t say I am going into a game to lose,” said the Argentinian.
“I want to win but JDT, financially, are too strong and the best side in Malaysia. I just want my boys to give their best.”
