PSV Eindhoven Sees Ideal Next Step with Kodai Sano
PSV Eindhoven has officially signed the Japanese midfielder Kodai Sano from NEC Nijmegen in a transfer record deal, committing him until mid-2031. The exact transfer fee is undisclosed, but it will break NEC's club record.
Sano sees this as the ideal next step in his career: 'PSV is a top club; you can see that in everything they do.' He highlights the presence of head coach Peter Bosz, who also has some Japanese skills, as an extra motivation. 'What’s more, the head coach's character and style of play really appeal to me. He even speaks a little Japanese, thanks to his own past with JEF United. That’s really nice, of course.' Sano is eager to begin working with his new teammates: 'I can't wait to step onto the field here. I’m going to fight for PSV with everything I’ve got, day in and day out.'
Sano's Performance and Future Role at PSV
Sano, who joined NEC from Fagiano Okayama in August 2023, made his official debut for NEC a month later. He has played 98 matches for the club and scored 12 goals before moving to Eindhoven.
PSV sees Sano as a dynamic option in midfield with Earnest Stewart, director of football, praising his skills and potential: 'We see him as number 6 with a lot of dynamism in his play.' Stewart also highlights Sano's mentality despite his young age: 'In addition, despite his young age, he has already shown that he can perform under pressure and isn’t afraid to take on responsibility. We see Kodai as a very valuable addition to the team.'
The signing gives PSV another dynamic option in midfield as head coach Peter Bosz prepares his squad for another domestic title challenge and a return to Champions League football.
