We are pleased to announce that Kashima Antlers Youth players Rui Onuki, Daigo Hirashima, and Yuwa Fukuoka (all third-year students at Kashima Gakuen High School) will be promoted to the top team starting in January 2027.
Rui Onuki
Born
April 9, 2008, Ibaraki Prefecture
Size
169 cm, 66 kg
Position
MF
Dominant Foot
Right
Career
Kashima Antlers Junior - Kashima Antlers Junior Youth - Kashima Antlers Youth
National Team Experience
U-16, U-17, U-18 Japan National Team
Characteristics
A defensive midfielder who has an absolute presence both offensively and defensively with sharp ball-winning skills and driving force. In addition to reacting to second balls, he has high kicking accuracy and creates chances with accurate passes after winning the ball.
Comment from Onuki
"I am Rui Onuki from Kashima Antlers Youth, and I will be promoted to the top team from 2027. I am extremely happy to be able to start my career as a professional footballer at this historic Antlers club, where I have played since I was a child. I will never forget my gratitude to everyone who has supported me, and I will do my best for the victory of Antlers. To all the fans and supporters, thank you for your support."
Daigo Hirashima
Born
June 17, 2008, Ibaraki Prefecture
Size
167 cm, 62 kg
Position
MF
Dominant Foot
Right
Career
Kashima Antlers Junior - Kashima Antlers Junior Youth - Kashima Antlers Youth
National Team Experience
U-15, U-16, U-17 Japan National Team
Characteristics
An attacking midfielder with excellent technique and running ability. He creates differences in the front line with sharp dribbling and high shooting accuracy, and is also good at creating scoring opportunities by bringing his teammates into play.
Comment from Hirashima
"I will be promoted to the top team. First, I want to thank my family, coaches, and everyone who has supported me throughout my soccer life. Thank you. From now on, I will pour my strength into the team to achieve victory and titles for Kashima Antlers. Thank you for your support."
Yuwa Fukuoka
Born
October 29, 2008, Saitama Prefecture
Size
170 cm, 69 kg
Position
MF
Dominant Foot
Right
Career
Leschi Junior - Kashima Antlers Tsukuba Junior Youth - Kashima Antlers Youth
National Team Experience
U-16, U-17 Japan National Team
Characteristics
A defensive midfielder whose strengths are his abundant work rate and high defensive ability. With a strong fighting spirit, he supports the team with dedicated play both offensively and defensively.
Comment from Fukuoka
"First of all, I am very happy to start my professional career at this historic club. I am still immature, but I will not forget effort and gratitude, and I will do my best to surpass the great seniors."