Photo Caption: Solomon Warriors club owner Bodo Dettke and Head Coach Franco Ne’e welcomed their Japanese import player Kohei Matsumoto today at the National Stadium in Honiara. Credit: Theodre Inomae/ Solomon Warriors Media
Solomon Warriors, the TSL Champions, have received a significant boost in their preparations for the upcoming OFC Champions League and this year’s season with the addition of Japanese defender Kohei Matsumoto.
The 34-year-old arrived in Honiara today to a warm reception from the “red army,” and head coach Franco Ne’e is looking forward to working with him in his squad.
“It is an honour for the team to have a player with vast experience and quality join us, and I must admit it is a historic moment for me to have a top Asian player in my coaching career,” said Ne’e, speaking to SIFF Media.
Matsumoto has had several stints in New Zealand, most recently with Hamilton Wanderers. In 2023, he registered with Lae City FC in the PNGFA before competing in the WaiBop Football competition in Aotearoa.
Coach Ne’e acknowledges the Warriors management and owners, the Dettke Family, for investing in the club and making the signing possible.
“My bosses are the ones behind this import, and I want to sincerely thank them for paving the way forward for our players to develop and football generally to grow.”
The two-time OFC Champions League coach can’t wait for the challenge ahead of defending this season’s title and the showdown at the Champions League.
-SIFF Media
