Continuing its recent run of strategic appointments, NorthEast United Football Club (NEUFC) announced the roping in of midfielder Katsumi Yusa. The agile and dynamic footballer hailing from Japan has displayed excellent form in the I-League, playing for top Indian clubs. In the approaching edition of the Indian Super League, Katsumi Yusa is all set to share his vast experience of playing in Indian conditions

Katsumi has over the years become one of the most prominent faces in Indian football fraternity. NEUFC after signing Rowllin Borges, Subrata Paul, Zuala, Jerry, Sumit Passi and Nirmal Chettri, has picked in Yusa a crowd favorite who is a proven winner in the Indian Domestic circuit.

Excited about the new addition to family, John Abraham, Owner, NEUFC said, “It feels amazing to welcome Katsumi Yusa to NorthEast United Football Club. I have personally followed his game in the past few years and am completely convinced he can make a difference in critical situations. His work ethic is outstanding and he is a very nice boy. I feel he will be the bridge between our Indian lads and the foreign players.”

Explaining further about the critical role Yusa would play in the club, Ardeshir Jeejeebhoy, Director of Football, NEUFC said, “In the Indian Football scenario, Katsumi Yusa is a name that needs no introduction. Participating in key championships like Federation Cup, AFC Cup and the I-League, he has always risen to the challenge. His leadership abilities will be an asset for the team. With his appointment, we are affirmative that we have a player who will put in more than 100% on the pitch.”

Katsumi Yusa also expressed his happiness at having signed for NEUFC, “This year I was looking forward to playing in the ISL and NorthEast United FC made me feel like a part of their family. I am extremely happy to join NEUFC and would like to thank John Abraham and the entire staff for their support. This year we have a very good coach and a promising group of players. I want to give everything I have towards helping the Club challenge for honours.”

Katsumi Yusa debuted in the year 2007, playing for Sanfrecce Hiroshima, in the J.League Division 1. Following his transfer from San Lorenzo, Yusa joined ONGC in January 2011, scoring his first goal in India against Hindustan Aero on 9 April 2011. Joining Mohun Bagan AC on 1 May 2013, Yusa has established himself as a vital and strong midfielder ever since.

(Report & Photo courtesy NorthEast United FC)