Tomoki Iwata’s loan deal from Yokohama F Marinos to Celtic expires today.
At the start of the January transfer window a deal for the then 25-year-old was announced, like Daizen Maeda a year earlier it was initially on loan with an obligation to buy.
It seems a quirk of business between Celtic and Yokohama that both moves were initially on loan with an obligation to make the deal permanent.
The Loan deadline for Tomoki Iwata ends today.
I believe Celtic will buy him out???? https://t.co/6xGNJMXtDf— ?????Japanese Bhoy Studios? (@CelticStudio_JP) June 9, 2023
Iwata ended the season having started seven matches and made 11 substitute appearances.
His initial appearances solidifying the midfield coming off the bench were impressive but finishing the season starting three of the last four matches in central defence didn’t do him any favours.
Playing in central defence in Japan is far different to Scotland, even against Inverness Caley Thistle he looked badly exposed as Dan Mackay pulled a goal back late in the match.
His permanent transfer will almost certainly be rubber stamped but with Postecoglou gone Iwata’s future and that of the other J-League imports will be closely monitored with the club going under new management.
??? #WelcomeTomoki
We are delighted to announce the signing of current J-League Player of the Year and Japanese international Tomoki Iwata.
Welcome to #CelticFC, Tomoki! ???
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 30, 2022