Shoya Nakajima Returns to Portimonense After Four-Year Absence

Japanese forward Shoya Nakajima, 31, has re‑joined his former club Portimonense SC in Portugal's second division. The club announced the signing on its official social‑media channels, noting the player’s return after a four‑year gap.

Nakajima left Urawa Red Diamonds earlier this summer and was a free agent before securing the move. The transfer comes as Portimonense resolves a FIFA‑imposed transfer ban; the club has paid all outstanding claims from creditors and expects the ban to be lifted, allowing Nakajima’s registration. Portimonense, which finished 15th in Liga Portugal 2 last season, previously recorded 72 appearances, 17 goals and 23 assists for the Japanese international.

The news generated notable reactions from overseas football fans, with several blogs and fan sites highlighting the surprise signing.