“In a transfer it is important that all parties are satisfied. That is the case here,” said Fortuna sports director Klaus Allofs on Uchino’s departure. The right-back joins Al-Wasl from Dubai with immediate effect. The transfer fee for the Japanese is unknown. Uchino was under contract with Fortuna until 2025 and his market value is estimated at 350,000 euros.
“Takashi Uchino has developed further with us, but in his position he has a proven great in front of him in the form of Matthias Zimmermann. The change offers him the chance to gain momentum in his career. We would like to thank him for his exemplary character and wish ‘Taka’ all the best!” Allofs continued.
The Japanese U23 international had played 27 competitive matches for Fortuna. But Uchino was only second choice behind Zimmermann. “With the transfer to Al-Wasl we have found an excellent solution for everyone involved. Taka’s contract only had one year left and his wish for more playing time would probably have been difficult to implement this season too. So both parties agreed to go their separate ways if the opportunity arose. His new club has now promised him the playing time he wants,” said F95 sports director Christian Weber.
