Japanese forward Yuto Kusaba set to resume training with City Stars on Wednesday

Japanese footballer Yuto Kusaba is expected to resume training with Nairobi City Stars on Wednesday in preparation for his Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) debut in the second leg of the season.

Kusaba joined City Stars in August from Division 2 side Zenshin FC but couldn’t be fielded in top-flight matches after it emerged that international guidelines of the FIFA Transfer Matching System (TMS) had not been met prior to his move to Simba wa Nairobi.

By the time City Stars sought to streamline his transfer to meet the international requirements, the off-season window was nearing closure, and after that missed the deadline.

After missing the deadline, the club clarified that the former Basara Hyogo player would be training and featuring in friendly matches with the rest of the team to remain fit.

However, City Stars Chief Executive Officer Patrick Korir told Mozzart Sport that Kusaba returned to Japan on September 2 following the expiry of his visa.

He also clarified that work-related commitments made it necessary for him to fly back home.

Off the pitch, Kusaba works with a Meru-based Non-Governmental Organization.

Blow for Nairobi City Stars as Japanese star is set to miss first leg of 2023-2024 FKF PL season

Korir revealed that Kusaba jetted back on Friday last week and will resume training on Wednesday.

“He is back and will start training on Wednesday. He returned home in September due to job-related demands. His visa was on the verge of expiring as well. The good news is he is here with us and looking forward to the second leg of the season,” Korir cleared the air.

With the mid-season transfer window fast approaching, Korir said completing the transfer of Kusaba remains the club’s top priority.

“Everything is in place. We are only waiting for the window to be opened,” added Korir.

City Stars announce signing of Japanese youngster Yuto Kusaba

Should the club succeed, Kusaba will become the first Asian player to grace the modern-day Kenyan top flight.

Presently, City Stars are placed eighth on the log with 21 points, seven behind defending champions Gor Mahia who sit at the apex.

Korir disclosed that the management will splash the cash in the transfer window and strengthen the team in January should the technical bench deem it fit.