Kyogo Furuhashi made a profound impact for Celtic FC in his three-and-a-half-year spell with the Glasgow-based club. Looking back on his time with the team, one quickly remembers the 85 goals he scored in 165 matches (in all competitions).
But equally unforgettable is the joy that embodied the way he played. For Furuhashi, each goal seemed to represent the Happiest Moment Ever in his career, as documented in videos and photos. He was always thrilled when a teammate scored for the storied franchise.
Furuhashi's departure from Scotland to play for French Ligue 1 side Rennes represents a new opportunity to test his football skills against tougher competition.
It also marks the end of a special bond between Furuhashi and Celtic fans.
In a statement to mark his departure, Furuhashi, 30, spoke about the strong attachment he developed with the team's loyal fans.
"Over the past three-and-a-half years, I have been truly grateful for your wonderful support and cheering," Furuhashi said in a statement. "From the moment I joined until my final day, I've been happy every step of the way."
He continued: "Being able to enjoy so many wonderful moments and achievements with all of you made me feel like the happiest player in the world countless times. I believe these invaluable experiences were only possible because I came to Celtic."
Furuhashi Grateful for Fans' Support
In Furuhashi's evocative remarks, he paid tribute to the fans for rooting for him during his successful tenure at Celtic Park.
While at this stage of his career, he is ready to move on to a new challenge, the Nara Prefecture native will always remember the supporters who inspired him and teammates who helped him achieve great things for Celtic. This includes winning three Scottish Premiership titles and three Scottish League Cups. He also led the Scottish Premiership with 30 goals in the 2022-23 season, earning Player of the Year accolades.
"Even as time goes on, I am deeply moved and encouraged by the many warm messages and kind words I continue to receive, and I cannot thank you enough," Furuhashi said in his statement, addressing the team's fans. "I move forward but I will keep all of you in my heart and continue on my journey."
Expectations in France
Furuhashi's transfer to Rennes was finalized on Monday, January 27. The two-and-a-half year deal included a £10 million GBP (roughly $12.5 million USD, or ¥1.95 billion JPY) transfer payment to Celtic.
Rennes' investment in Furuhashi, underscores the team's belief in his abilities as a tone-setting player.
"We're delighted to welcome Kyogo, a striker with great finishing qualities, who is very active and generous with his runs," Rennes sporting director Frederic Massara said, according to the team's official website. "He has a wealth of international experience, including in the Champions League, and knows what it's like to play at the highest level."
Rennes, sitting in 16th place in the 18-team Ligue 1 standings, clearly needs a spark.
There are big expectations for Furuhashi with his new team.
"The arrival of Kyogo is the wish of the whole club," executive chairman Arnaud Pouille said. "He has a technical profile that will strengthen the changing room."
Pouille added, "He's a very generous player with a great sense of team spirit."
Ready to Contribute Right Away
Getting ready for his first match in a Rennes uniform, Furuhashi should make his Ligue 1 debut against Strasbourg on Sunday, February 2.
"I hope to make a rapid contribution to the team's performances," he told Rennes' official team website.
He also discussed his thoughts on leaving Celtic and the expectations placed on him by his new team.
"After some great years with Celtic, I was looking for a new challenge in a recognized league," Furuhashi said this week. "Physically and technically, the league is very competitive. The coach and the directors told me how much they wanted me to bring my qualities and experience."
In trying to help Rennes improve before the end of the season in May, Furuhashi is determined to be a productive player.
"The club is not in the position it has been in for the last few seasons, and our objective will be to climb back up the league table," he said, according to the team website. "I feel ready to give my all with Rennes."
Giving his all was a trademark of Kyogo Furuhashi's years as a Celtic striker.
Fans in Japan, Scotland, and elsewhere, will continue to root for his success as a player.
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Author: Ed Odeven
Find Ed on JAPAN Forward's dedicated website, SportsLook. Follow his [Japan Sports Notebook] on Sundays, [Odds and Evens] during the week, and X (formerly Twitter) ＠ed_odeven.
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