Rikuto Sato to join Montedio Yamagata top team in 2027

Montedio Yamagata has announced that goalkeeper Rikuto Sato will be promoted to the club's top team starting in January 2027. Sato, a Yamagata Prefecture native, is currently a member of the Montedio Yamagata youth team.

Born on October 25, 2008, the 17-year-old stands 186 cm tall and weighs 76 kg. His career path includes stints with Hokubu FC, Avanteza Yamagata SC, and Montedio Yamagata Junior Youth Murayama. Sato has experience with age-group representative teams and was a candidate for the Japan U-17 national team last year.

In a statement, Sato expressed his gratitude to his coaches, teammates, and family, noting his excitement to begin his professional career with the club he has been with since his junior youth years. He stated his intention to prove his value and contribute to the team's victories.