Gladbach Signs Uno: "Bundesliga the Next, but Also Challenging Step"

Gladbach Signs Uno: "Bundesliga the Next, but Also Challenging Step"

Borussia Mönchengladbach has introduced its sixth new signing for the upcoming season. The defensive midfielder Zento Uno joins the Foals from Japan's Shimizu S-Pulse. The 22-year-old has signed a contract until 2030 and is reported to cost a mid-six-figure amount.

According to "Kicker," the transfer fee is in the range of 500,000 euros. This marks Uno's first move away from his home country at the club level, making him the sixth Japanese player in the club's history. He is regarded as a true ball-winner—a type of player that has been missing from Gladbach's squad. Additionally, he served as captain of Shimizu S-Pulse, bringing leadership qualities to the team.

"Zento is a defensively-minded, tactically disciplined, strong in duels, and hard-working midfielder with his greatest strengths in the game without the ball. After two seasons in the J-League and his first appearances for the Japanese national team, the move to the Bundesliga is the next, but also challenging step for him. We believe that Zento, with his character and ambition, will master this and we are excited to accompany and support him in this journey," said sporting director Rouven Schröder.

Uno, who has made two appearances for Japan's national team but was not nominated for the World Cup, stated: "I have always wanted to play in the Bundesliga. Borussia is a big club that is very well known in Japan due to its Japanese players. When the offer came, I knew I wanted to play for Borussia. I am very excited about this step and the new challenge." Currently, another Japanese player, Shuto Machino, is part of the Foals' squad.

Gladbach Announces Signing of Swedish Talent Mujevic

Before Uno, Gladbach had already announced the transfer of Swedish talent Samin Mujevic. The 16-year-old, also a defensive midfielder, is moving from the U19 of Malmö FF to the Lower Rhine and has signed a long-term contract. The reported fee is around 350,000 euros, according to "Bild."

"Samin is a highly talented midfielder who brings exciting qualities for the profile of a 'Holding Six.' Therefore, we are very pleased that Samin has chosen our path and that we can support him in the targeted development of his skills," said Mirko Sandmöller, director of the youth academy. Mujevic is considered one of the most promising Swedish talents of the 2009 generation.