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Hwang completed his Porto switch from Feyenoord on a three-year contract, with an option for a further season.
The 29-year-old will play in the seventh country of his career, having previously featured in Korea Republic, the United States, Russia, Greece, Serbia and the Netherlands.
Hwang has earned 76 caps for Korea Republic and featured at the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups, scoring and providing an assist in their 2-1 group-stage win over Czechia at the latter tournament.
“I am very excited to sign for FC Porto, one of the best clubs in the world,” said Hwang. “We were champions last season, and our goal is to keep the trophy here in the city. I hope I can help the team in this mission.”
Araki makes Belgian move
Japanese winger Ryotaro Araki has left Kashima Antlers to join Belgian Pro League side Sint-Truiden.
The 24-year-old, who represented Japan at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, can play out wide or behind the striker.
Araki scored 18 goals in almost 150 appearances for Kashima and spent the 2024 season on loan at FC Tokyo, where he recorded seven goals and four assists.
He becomes the latest Japanese player to join Sint-Truiden, who have provided a pathway into European football for several J.League talents.
Ilhan returns home
Singapore international Ilhan Fandi has returned to the Singapore Premier League after signing a two-year deal with champions Lion City Sailors.
The 23-year-old rejoins the domestic competition following spells with Belgian side KMSK Deinze and Thai champions Buriram United.
Ilhan scored 17 goals and was named the league’s Young Player of the Year in 2022 after helping Albirex Niigata Singapore, now FC Jurong, lift the title.
“I’m hungrier than ever because what I have in front of me is something special,” said Ilhan. “I’m very motivated to do well for the Lion City Sailors, Singapore football and also achieve my personal goals.”
Itamura joins Liverpool
Japan youth international Mao Itamura has moved from Feyenoord to Liverpool. The 19-year-old was named the Women’s Eredivisie 2025/26 Player of the Season after registering eight goals and six assists.
She also helped Feyenoord qualify for European competition for the first time and was part of the Japan side that won the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup in April.
“It’s a league and a club that was one of my goals to join,” said Itamura, who will wear the number 26 shirt. “I’m really happy to have the opportunity to play for Liverpool, which is a big club.”
Photo: FC Porto
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