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Japanese international joins Auckland FC

An experienced international has joined Auckland AFC for their first season
Experienced Japanese international Hiroki Sakai has agreed to terms to play for Auckland FC in the new A-League season. PHOTO: AUCKLAND FC

Japanese international full-back Hiroki Sakai is joining new A-League franchise Auckland FC for the upcoming season.


The 34-year-old becomes the sides first Visa signing and adds depth and experience to the squad.


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Hiroki has played in three FIFA World Cups (2014, 18, 2022), two Olympic Games (2012, 2020) and was awarded AFC Champions League Most Valuable Player of the 2022 season.


He made close to 100 appearances at Hannover 96 in Germany’s Bundesliga and played over 145 matches for Olympique de Marseille in France’s Ligue 1,


Auckland FC head coach Steve Corica was very happy with his new addition.


"Hiroki is a highly regarded, extremely hard-working and technically gifted player who covers an unbelievable amount of ground. Tactically he is also a very well-disciplined player,


"It is a big coup for the football club. There were several teams vying for his signature. We can't wait to see him training with the boys and will do all we can to help him settle into life in Auckland."


Sakai has also played more than 70 matches for Japan.

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