Eren Albayrak joins J-League’s Jubilo Iwata

The Turkish left-back has packed his bags and moved to the Far East, becoming the second Turkish player ever to play in Japan’s top flight.

Eren Albayrak, who recently terminated his contract with Konyaspor by mutual consent, has signed for Japan’s Jubilo Iwata on a free transfer.

The 27-year-old left-back has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half year contract.

“To play against the world’s star players gives me motivation. To play against Iniesta and Torres will be a thrill. I’ll do whatever I can, work very hard. I’ll give my best abilities,” he said of the move.

Eren becomes only the second player, after Ilhan Mansiz, to ever transfer to the Japanese football league.

“First, they spoke with my agent. The idea of playing football in Japan was very exciting but I talked with my family and the people who I trust before making my decision. I received very positive opinions so I decided to make the move,” he said about deciding to move abroad.

This will be the first time he will move abroad, having spent his entire career in Turkey thus far.