Hoffenheim Announce Signing of Japanese Player Koki Machida

Bundesliga side Hoffenheim have officially announced the signing of 27-year-old Japanese international center-back Koki Machida 町田 浩樹 from Belgian club Sint-Gilloise.

Hoffenheim confirmed that Machida has signed a long-term contract with the club. According to previous media reports, the transfer fee for the defender is approximately €4.5 million.

Hoffenheim’s general manager, Alexander Rosen, commented on the new signing:
"With Machida, we've secured the type of center-back we’ve been looking for in this position. He is a Japanese international with considerable international experience and was an absolutely key player in Saint-Gilloise’s success last season."

"He’s a no-nonsense defender who never backs down from a challenge. He also has excellent heading ability due to his height, possesses great vision overall, and is capable of accurate passing. We are confident that he will bring the defensive stability we need through his performances and skills."

Machida also shared his thoughts on the move:
"I’m very excited to join Hoffenheim. It’s a very attractive and ambitious club that competes in one of the top five leagues in Europe."

"For me, joining Hoffenheim and playing in the Bundesliga is another big step in my career. I’m really looking forward to training with my new teammates. No matter what happens, I will give everything I have and do my best to help the team succeed in the future."

Machida initially joined Saint-Gilloise on loan from his hometown club Kashima Antlers in January 2022, before making the move permanent in July 2023. During his time with the Belgian club, he made 114 appearances, scoring four goals and providing two assists. In addition to domestic competitions, Machida also featured in UEFA Champions League qualifiers, Europa League qualifiers, the Europa League proper, and the UEFA Conference League.