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SINGAPORE: Former Japan and AC Milan midfielder Keisuke Honda will play in the Singapore Premier League (SPL) next season, it was announced on Friday (Apr 10).<\/p>\n
In a press release, Albirex Niigata Singapore, which will be known as FC Jurong from the 2026\/2027 SPL season, said that Honda will join the club in August.<\/p>\n
Honda began his career playing for Japanese side Nagoya Grampus Eight, before stints in the Netherlands (VVV-Venlo) and Russia (CSKA Moscow). After about three years with AC Milan in the Serie A, he went on to feature for clubs in Australia, Brazil and Portugal, among others.<\/p>\n
The 39-year-old has close to 100 appearances for Japan and featured for the Samurai Blue at three World Cups. Honda also spent a stint coaching Cambodia’s national team from 2018 to 2023.<\/p>\n
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to play for FC Jurong. As I turn 40 this year, I am pursuing several personal challenges, including a Guinness World Record for scoring in the most countries\u2019 top leagues,” said Honda.<\/span><\/p>\n “However, my primary goal with this club is to win the league title. There are a couple of very strong rivals, so it will be a tough challenge, but I am determined to achieve it.”<\/span><\/p>\n Honda, who is also co-founder and general partner of investment firm X&KSK, has been spotted in Singapore from time to time.<\/p>\n Late last year, he posted pictures on Instagram of himself training at Tampines Hub and Jurong East Stadium, the latter being the home ground of Albirex.<\/p>\n “To build a great castle, you need a solid cornerstone. Into that cornerstone, we pour world-class experience, vision, and passion,” said club chairman Daisuke Korenaga.<\/span><\/p>\n