MS Features: Kyoga Nakamura, the midfielder determined to cap off Singapore’s successful campaign

When Kyoga Nakamura was unveiled as Thai outfit Bangkok United’s latest signing in June 2025, it was set to be a chapter full of promise for the Japanese-born Singaporean midfielder.

But just six months later, with his family struggling to adapt to life in Thailand, the 29-year-old father of two decided to cut short his stay and return to Singapore with the Lion City Sailors.

“Bangkok United had many quality players, and I was happy to be a part of them. But we were on such a tight schedule, and sometimes had eight or nine games in one month,” he said.

“Especially for away matches, I often went two or three weeks without seeing my wife and daughters.”

That experience only deepened Kyoga’s appreciation for Singapore, and he is set to don the national jersey once again.

On 31 March, he will represent the country at Singapore’s final AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh at the National Stadium.

Lion returns to Singapore

After plying his trade in ...