SNS GroupYutaro Oda has left Hearts to move to Japanese J-League side Shonan Bellmare, the Tynecastle club has announced.
Oda joined Hearts in January 2023 and the winger went on to play for the club 53 times, scoring seven goals. However, he didn’t establish himself as a regular first team starter and has now returned to his homeland on a permanent deal.
Hearts head coach Neil Critchley said the 23-year-old had found his time in Edinburgh frustrated by fitness issues but now had the opportunity to revitalise his career.
“Yutaro goes back to Japan with our best wishes,” he said.
“He’s a young player who wants to play but he’s been unfortunate with injuries of late and has found it difficult to work his way back into contention.
“Sometimes a fresh start is required, and this move gives him that opportunity, so we thank him for his time at Hearts and wish him good luck for the future.”
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