Sydney FC have secured the future of one of the club’s most promising young talents after handing midfielder Wataru Kamijo a new four-year contract.
Recently named the club’s Young Player of the Year, Kamijo enjoyed a breakout season in 2024-25 as he featured regularly for the side in both their Isuzu UTE A-League and AFC Champions League Two campaigns.
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After making his league debut in the goalless draw with Perth Glory at the end of February the combative midfielder would finish the season having made eight appearances in total, six of which were starts in the heart of the Sky Blues’ midfield.
Furthermore, Kamijo also featured five times during Sydney FC’s run to the semi-finals of the ACL Two competition having earned the trust of head coach Ufuk Talay.
“I’m really proud to be staying with Sydney FC for the next four years,” said Kamijo after news of his deal was made official.
“This club has given me my opportunity and I feel like I’m in the right place to grow and develop into a first-class midfielder.
He added: “I’ve learned so much already and I’m really looking forward to pushing hard next year to become a regular in the A-League Men’s squad. I can’t wait for what’s ahead in Sky Blue.”
Following on from his impressive debut season in the Isuzu UTE A-League Kamijo’s performances also saw him called up to the recent Young Socceroos squad for their tour of Argentina, meaning the 19-year-old could now be in line for a spot at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile later this year.
“Wataru had an extremely impressive first year in the A-League Men’s squad,” said Sydney FC head coach Talay, who himself recently put pen-to-paper on a new one-year contract.
“He brings great enthusiasm and tenacity to our midfield, and at the same time has a calmness on the ball that is rare in players his age.
He added: “He’s a smart footballer and I believe he can become a very influential player for this club in the years ahead.”
Kamijo is the fourth player to have inked fresh terms at the club during the off-season as Sydney FC begin preparations ahead of next season.
Young goalkeeper Gus Hoefsloot signed a new three-year deal, experienced defender Alex Grant has been signed on a two-year contract whilst midfielder Rhys Youlley joined the Sky Blues on a three-year contract from Belgian Pro League side Westerlo.
