Two young players get special designation
Yokohama F. Marinos announced on July 24 that university players Hikaru Takahashi (Toyo University, FW) and Kosuke Matsumura (Hosei University, MF) were certified as JFA/J.League Special Designated Players (certified July 21, 2026). Takahashi (born June 26, 2004) has 4 Emperor’s Cup appearances and 2 goals; Matsumura (born May 2, 2004) has 9 J1 appearances (both as of July 24, 2026). Both are expected to join the club in the 2027 season, a notable step in the club’s youth development.
Gamba Osaka x SUMMER SONIC goods
Gamba Osaka announced on July 24 that collaboration goods with SUMMER SONIC 2026 (Osaka venue) will be sold. Venue-limited items include a uniform-style shirt (price.7,000 yen, tax incl.) and a face towel (price.3,000 yen, tax incl.), available in limited quantities. Purchase details are provided via the SUMMER SONIC official site.
Hirato scores in training match
During their Okinawa training camp, Kyoto Sanga played a practice match against Shonan Bellmare in which Taiki Hirato scored by connecting to Ren Kato’s cross. The session used three 45-minute periods and the overall score was 1–4, but the coach noted the squad used the match to identify issues and to keep trying positive tactical approaches.
Nagoya City and Grampus PR partnership
On July 24, Nagoya City announced a PR partnership with Nagoya Grampus as part of their broader collaboration, timed with the “Shachi no Daisaiten” event. Measures include about 2,000 waste collection workers wearing Grampus support uniforms on match days (from Aug 7), stickers on collection trucks from Aug 7 for about one year to raise awareness, and appointing former player Shohei Abe as a one-day patrol leader on Sep 28. The initiative aims to promote local awareness and community ties.