"Dribbling strength and explosiveness": Darmstadt signs Furukawa

Yosuke Furukawa last played in Poland. IMAGO/Newspix

Following Benedikt Börner, SV Darmstadt 98 has announced Yosuke Furukawa, their second new signing for the upcoming second division season. The 21-year-old Japanese player joins the Lilies from Jubilo Iwata, but was loaned to Polish first division club Gornik Zabrze last season.

"With Yosuke Furukawa, we have secured another promising young player. We were able to get a good impression of him, especially during his last season in Poland, and we are convinced that with his talent and potential he can also attract attention in the 2nd division," sporting director Paul Fernie is quoted as saying in a club statement.

Furukawa, a right-footer, prefers to play on the left wing. "Yosuke's dribbling ability and explosiveness, coupled with his good technique, make him an exciting offensive option for us," Fernie continued.

Furukawa played 31 matches for Iwata in Japan's top division. He made a total of 76 appearances for the club (seven goals, six assists). Last season, Furukawa ventured to Europe, where he made 25 competitive appearances for Gornik Zabrze, contributing two goals and two assists.

"I'm really looking forward to Darmstadt 98 and my new team. I will do everything I can to help the team succeed and also make the fans proud," said Furukawa, who will wear the number 44 for the Lilies.