Like Superchampions but in La Paternal: Argentinos Juniors add Japanese footballer Ryoga Kida

Juniors of Argentinaidentified as the “Seedbed of the World” for the historical value of its lower divisions, today announced the signing of a young Japanese striker, who will be on loan until 31 December, with an option to buy.

RyHello boy18 years old and 1.76 meters tall, he will initially join the reserve team led by Cristian Zermatten on the basis of a contractual productivity scheme.

Born in the capital of Japan, Kida started playing football in the youth team of Tokyo Verdy, then moved to FC Tama until reaching the youth team of Nagoya Grampus, which allowed him to make his debut in the first division last year. He played 20 matches in the top tier of Japanese football and scored three goals.

To announce the news of his arrival, Argentinos used a video with images of the footballer and others from Supercampeones, the emblematic football anime series.

“Ever since I started playing football, admiring Lionel Messi, I have followed South American and Argentine football, and I always wanted to test myself if I had the opportunity. It was a very difficult decision accept the challenge of going to Argentinabut I thought it was the perfect time,” he told Nagoya Grampus’ official website.

“I will do what I can. The best thing is to generate growth on the other side of Japan. In order for this decision to be the right one, I will show my soul in Argentinaeven in the face of adversity, and I will play football with my life at stake,” the striker promised.

So far only two Japanese footballers have played in the first division of Argentine football: Nahoiro Takahara in Boca (2001/2002) and Yasuke Kato in Huracán (2007). The promotion was done by Yasushi Kawakami for Banfield (1984) and Kou Goutou in Almirante Brown (2018).