Macarthur Bulls have added some title winning experience to their defensive unit after signing Japanese central defender Tatsuki Nara on loan ahead of upcoming 2026/27 season.
Nara arrives at the Bulls from J1 League side Avispa Fukuoka, where he’s made 130 appearances since joining in 2022.
The 32-year-old has also represented FC Tokyo, Consadole Sapporo and Kawasaki Frontale, making more than 190 appearances in Japan’s top flight across his career.
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Nara brings a glittering resume with him to Campbelltown that includes two J1 League titles and a Japanese Super Cup with Kawasaki Frontale as well as a J.League Cup triumph with Avispa Fukuoka in 2023.
The experienced Japanese defender becomes the second major signing made by the Bulls under new Head Coach Sasa Ognenovski.
“I’m very excited and happy to join this club. I can’t wait to play in front of the fans,” Nara said after signing his deal.
“I had a Zoom call with Sasa and I felt that he really wanted me to join the club.
“I already knew about the club, I knew that they had won two Australia Cups and played in the Asian Champions League (Two), so it’s an honour to play for this club.
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“I wanted to do something challenging so I decided to come here.
“I want to give everything for the team. I want to protect the goal and win games. I play with passion and energy and I want fans to feel the passion on the pitch.”
The 32-year-old will add experience and leadership to Ognenovski’s defensive unit as the Bulls prepare for the upcoming 2026/27 A-League campaign.
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Bulls CEO Sam Krslovic said Nara’s experience at the highest level of Japanese football would be an asset to the squad.
“Nara is a player of significant experience and quality, and we’re very pleased to welcome him to Macarthur Bulls.
“He has competed and won at the highest level in Japan, and that experience, combined with his leadership and defensive qualities, will be a valuable addition to our squad.
“Nara is a strong fit for the standards and ambition we have at the Bulls. We’re confident he will make a significant contribution both on and off the pitch.”
The Bulls kick off their 2026/27 A-Leagues campaign at home to Perth Glory on Saturday, October 17.
