Japanese defender Akito Saito set to sign for Aizawl FC

The I-League outfit finished eighth last season.

Aizawl FC is set to sign young Japanese centre-back Akito Saito on a season long deal, Khel Now can confirm. A source close to the development informed Khel Now, "Akito Saito is all set to sign a season-long deal with Aizawl FC. The 23-year-old will join the club as a free agent."

Akito Saito played in the Armenian top division club Lernayin Artsakh Goris prior to joining the I-League outfit. The signing of Akito can provide more options for Aizawl in the ongoing I-League campaign.

About the Player

Akito Saito started his footballing career playing for the Jissen Gakuen High School team in Japan. From there, he made it to the university team at Sanno University in Tokyo. He perfected the basics of game playing for the Sanno University team during the period of 2017-18.

He signed his first professional contract with Lernayin Artsakh Goris of Bardzraguyn khumb, which is the top-tier football league of Armenia. He made his debut for them on July 1, 2022. He registered only one appearance for Lernayin Artsakh Goris.

The 185 cm tall defender is still a raw talent. He possesses qualities that are still to be perfected. The centre-back is good at aerial balls and his physical approach towards the game is an added advantage.

Aizawl FC’s preseason preparation

Aizawl FC, under the guidance of head coach Stanley Rozario, is preparing well for the I-League 2022-23. The club secured an eighth-place finish last season.

However, this season many local talents have been added to the squad. Some of the key signings include defender Lalchhawnkima and Zodingliana Ralte. The club recently extended the contract of K. Lalmalsawma till 2023. Another notable arrival is that of central midfielder Lalchhanhima Sailo who previously played for the Indian Arrows.

Aizawl FC brought in I-League veteran Henry Kisseka who has a rich experience on Indian soil. He priorly played for clubs like Gokulam Kerala, Mohammedan SC, Mohun Bagan, and Bhowanipore FC prior to joining Aizawl FC. Aizawl FC will face TRAU FC in their first clash in the 2022-23 I-League campaign on 15th November.