Urawa Reds forward Masayuki Okano will move to Vissel Kobe on a 5-month loan, the Reds announced Friday.
Okano, known for his speedy play up front, has played for the Reds in 203 league games, scoring 36 goals in 1994-2000 seasons. But this season the former Japan forward was not given many opportunities to play for the team while ex-manager Tita was at the helm.
Urawa new manager Pita on Thursday said that he tried to persuade Okano to stay on his side but found it difficult, saying "Okano's mind has already gone to Kobe."
Okano commented in a statement released by the club, "I'm grateful to our fans who have helped me grow up as a player at Urawa. But I'd like to test my ability and challenge a place on the national team in a new environment."