Bundesliga bid looms as NEC sidelines Sano amid mystery

NEC Nijmegen’s 25‑year‑old Japanese midfielder Kodai Sano was omitted from Wednesday’s friendly against De Treffers in Groesbeek, with the club citing illness, while whispers of a serious Bundesliga move – reportedly a Hoffenheim bid – swirl around the international and could reshape his career trajectory.

The club released a statement that Sano missed the match due to illness. No further explanation was given at the time of the friendly. The friendly took place at De Treffers’ ground in Groesbeek.

Sano, who has earned caps for Japan, remains a key figure in NEC’s midfield plans. His absence therefore raises questions about the club’s short‑term options. Club insiders hint that there is more to the story than the stated illness.

Sources close to the German side indicate that Hoffenheim is preparing a serious bid for the midfielder. The interest aligns with the Bundesliga’s reputation for recruiting Asian talent.

If the bid materialises, it would represent a top‑flight move for the 25‑year‑old. NEC would need to replace his creative influence ahead of the domestic campaign.

The episode underscores how transfer speculation can surface even on a training‑match day. NEC’s handling of the situation will be watched by both Dutch and German observers.