Tottenham Hotspur officially confirmed the signing of Japanese centre-back Kota Takai on Tuesday morning, and he has already given his first interview to Spurs fans.
Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed their second signing of the Thomas Frank era, signing Kota Takai from the J League for £5 million.
The 20-year-old arrives with a growing reputation, having been named Young Player of the Year last season in Japan.
Takai has signed a five-year contract, one that is expected to keep him at Hotspur Way until 2031, with the Japan International now set to be part of Frank’s team.
He already has four senior caps for the Japanese national team, an impressive feat for a player of his age, and one that has drawn praise from Japanese football experts.
Kota Takai gives first interview after joining Tottenham
Last weekend, Takai bid farewell to his former club Kawasaki Frontale, helping them to a 2-1 win over Kashima Antlers in the J League.
He impressed with a match-high 57 completed passes and ended his time in Asia on a strong note. After the game, he also said his goodbyes to fans and teammates.
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Now settled in north London, Takai has given his first interview since joining Tottenham, introducing himself to the club’s supporters and offering insight into his background, his football journey, and what he hopes to bring to the team.
He stressed his desire to give his all in a Tottenham shirt, telling the club’s official channel: “Having arrived in London, I am full of excitement. My position is centre-back. I can play either side – right or left.
“I was born in Kanagawa, Japan. I have always played football since my childhood. The reason why I love football is because as a team we can improve our skills together.
“The J League has very high intensity, and its level is high. I won the Young Player Award last year and I was very happy. I joined team Japan – it was always my dream. I had goosebumps when I went on the pitch for the first time as part of the national team.
“I played at the match with Kawasaki Frontale at the J League on Saturday, and I got on the plane the next day. And I am here today, now. I have always watched the Premier League a lot, since I was little. At Spurs, my first aim is to be on the pitch for a match and do my best.”
What Takai can offer Spurs under Thomas Frank
Takai is expected to begin pre-season training with the other 19 Tottenham players who have returned to Hotspur Way under new manager Thomas Frank.
While he is primarily a centre-back, capable of playing on either the left or right side of central defence, Takai also has the versatility to fill in at right-back if needed.
He stands at 6 ft 4, is comfortable on the ball and quick across the ground, with strong aerial ability to complement his style of play.