Mizuki Saito to undergo long-term injury layoff at Kyoto Sanga

Kyoto Sanga F.C. announced on September 7 that midfielder Mizuki Saito has undergone surgery following a serious injury. Saito was diagnosed with a left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and a meniscus injury.

The recovery period is estimated to be approximately 9 to 10 months, which effectively rules him out of the 2026-27 season. Saito underwent surgery on August 17 and will now focus on rehabilitation to return to play.

The 27-year-old midfielder has a history of significant injuries, having previously undergone two surgeries for a knee dislocation and ligament damage in 2023 while playing for Vissel Kobe. After a successful return to competition in February 2025, he joined Kyoto Sanga on loan before completing a permanent transfer in January.