Bologna midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata, who moved from Italian first-division rival Parma on a six-month loan deal last week, has complained of back pain and his debut in Tuesday's league match against Empoli is in doubt.
Bologna coach Carlo Mazzone said Monday that Nakata complained of the pain after Sunday's practice session and added he will decide whether to field the Japan captain on the team doctor's judgment.
Nakata missed Monday's training and received massages and treatment for his back.
Team doctor Giovanbattista Sisca sounded optimistic, saying that Nakata's status "is not very serious" and he expects Nakata to be fit enough by Tuesday's match.
Prior to his transfer to Bologna, currently 14th in the 18-team table, Nakata spent much of his third season with Parma warming the bench and had openly expressed his desire to move to another team for more playing opportunities.
According to media reports in Rome, Nakata has accepted a 30 percent pay cut and will earn 93 million yen (around $870,000) during his six months at Bologna.
Grampus signs Akita
NAGOYA (Kyodo) Nagoya Grampus Eight has signed former Japan defender Yutaka Akita, who has been released by Kashima Antlers, officials of the J. League first-division club said Tuesday.