Koki Ogawa transfers from NEC Nijmegen to FC Machida Zelvia

Japan national team forward Koki Ogawa has completed a permanent transfer from Dutch Eredivisie side NEC Nijmegen to J1 League club FC Machida Zelvia. The 29-year-old striker returns to the Japanese league for the first time in three years.

Reports indicate the transfer fee is approximately 2 million euros, slightly below his estimated market value. Ogawa is expected to command a significant salary at Machida, potentially becoming one of the highest-paid players in the league. His arrival is seen as a major boost for Machida as they pursue their first J1 title.

During his three seasons in the Netherlands, Ogawa recorded 33 goals in 92 official appearances for NEC. He also represented Japan in the North American World Cup. His teammate at Machida, Yuki Soma, welcomed the move, noting Ogawa’s exceptional positioning in the penalty area and their existing chemistry from international play.