Sydney FC’s Young Player of the Year Wataru Kamijo has committed his future to the club, signing a new four-year contract which will keep him in Sky Blue until the end of the 2028-29 season.
The 19-year-old midfielder enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024-25, making his first-team debut and impressing with a series of mature and composed performances across all competitions.
His standout displays in the AFC Champions League Two helped Sydney FC reach the semi-finals of the tournament for the first time in the club’s history.
Kamijo’s performances have also earned him international recognition, with the talented teenager recently called into the Young Socceroos squad for their tour of Argentina.
He is now firmly in contention to represent Australia at the upcoming FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile later this year.
Multi-lingual in Japanese and Korean, Kamijo expressed his excitement about his long-term future in Sydney.
“I’m really proud to be staying with Sydney FC for the next four years,” he said.
“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.
“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.”
Head Coach Ufuk Talay praised Kamijo’s character and impact in his debut season, highlighting the youngster’s ability and temperament.
“Wataru had an extremely impressive first year in the A-League Men’s squad,” Talay said.
“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’s a smart footballer and I believe he can become a very influential player for this club in the years ahead.”
Kamijo becomes the latest talent to commit to Sydney FC, following Gus Hoefsloot, Shay Hollman, Alex Grant and Rhys Youlley, and has made 14 appearances in Sky Blues.
