Working to clear the decks at Southampton, manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has now sent another out-of-contract player packing. In an 11th hour move on deadline day, Southampton have confirmed the departure of longtime centre-back Maya Yoshida to Serie A side Sampdoria. The sixth-month loan follows a similar set-up to Arsenal’s loan for Cedric Soares.
Maya Yoshida Joins Sampdoria From Southampton
A Longtime Servant and Club Legend for Southampton
Joining Southampton for their first season back in the English Premier League in 2012, Maya Yoshida has been a stellar player for the club. While not always the best or most talented player, Yoshida’s contributions and commitment cannot be understated. Named club captain, the Japanese international has been an amazing member of the Southampton community.
On the pitch, Yoshida has made a whopping 194 appearances for the Saints. Included in this total are his ten appearances for the Saints in the Europa League. During this time, Yoshida has served as a rock for the Southampton fanbase. Forced to watch numerous players depart over the years, Yoshida has remained a constant for the Saints.
The Japanese international’s impact off the pitch has also been huge for the community. Consistently volunteering his time at local charities, Yoshida’s impact in the community cannot be understated. Highlighting this, earlier this season, the 31-year-old pledged 1% of his annual salary to the Saints Foundation.
First Team Minutes Bring Maya Yoshida to Sampdoria
Unfortunately for Yoshida, the time has come for him to depart the South Coast of England. Struggling for first-team minutes, the soon to be out-of-contract centre-back needed to find a club that he could impress at. When Seria A side Sampdoria came knocking, it was likely not a hard decision for Yoshida to make.
Currently just five points above the relegation zone, Sampdoria need a player like Maya Yoshida. Lacking in overall talent and potential, Yoshida’s biggest on-field skill is his desire and consistency. Giving 110% at all times, Yoshida will immediately become one of the Italian side’s best workers.
Another big factor for Yoshida will be his current contract situation. Likely wanting to continue his career past this season, the Japanese centre-back will be looking to turn this loan move into a future contract. Whether his performance leads to a contract offer from Sampdoria is yet to be seen. However, with the Italian side paying a reported £3 million loan fee, it may be safe to say that Yoshida is rated very highly by the club.
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