Balzan FC sign Japanese midfielder Ryohei Micibuchi

Balzan FC have announced the signing of Japanese midfielder Ryohei Micibuchi.

The Reds have been one of the most active sides during the close season as they look to build a competitive squad ahead of their upcoming participation in the UEFA Conference League.

Mihibuchi spent the majority of his career in Japan and South Korea, the 28-year-old moved Serbia in 2021 to join top-flight side Radnicki Nis.

During his spell in the Serbian top-flight, Micibuchi played 39 games and scored four goals. The Japanese midfielder helped the club to qualify for the UEFA Conference League qualifiers after securing a top-four finish in the Serbian Liga.

“Balzan F.C. is pleased to announce the signing of 28-year-old Japanese midfielder Ryohei Michibuchi as the club continues to work towards having a competitive squad for its Europa Conference League commitments in July,” the Premier League club said in a statement.

“After playing the majority of his career in Japan and Korea, Ryoshei was transferred to Serbian Premier League club Radnicki Nis in 2021 where he played 39 games scoring 4 goals and helping Radnicki finish in the top 4 in Serbia and thereby winning a spot in the Europa Conference League.

“Ryoshei is very technically gifted and really impressed Balzan’s technical staff with his constant running and speed in transition.”

Micibuchi becomes Balzan’s fourth signing of the close season after the team led by Oliver Spiteri has already secured the services of Brazilian defender Andre Prates, midfielder Triston Caruana and Australian forward Charles Lokolingoy.