CommBank Socceroos stalwart Jackson Irvine is embarking on a fresh challenge, joining J1 League outfit Cerezo Osaka in a permanent transfer from St. Pauli, once his visa has been obtained.
Irvine spent the previous five years in Germany, joining the Hamburg club in 2021 and established himself as a key cog in the midfield, later serving as the team's captain for the past three seasons.
With Die Kiezkicker, he accumulated 153 appearances across all competitions, registering 15 goals and 21 assists while winning promotion to the Bundesliga in 2024.
A statement from St Pauli confirmed Irvine had asked to move to Japan following the FIFA World Cup™, and after extensive discussions his request was granted with both clubs agreeing to an undisclosed transfer fee.
The 33-year-old, who appeared in all four of Australia's matches at the FIFA World Cup™, is ready for the next chapter of his life where he has spent his entire professional career in Europe.
The midfielder, with 86 caps and 14 goals for his country, will wear the number 36 jersey and was excited about the new experience.
"I'm incredibly excited to be coming to the hottest football nation in the world and joining a new league and a club with huge potential," he told the club's official website.
"I hope I can use my experience and quality to help the team become even better. I'm also looking forward to experiencing a new culture and a new way of life. Let's achieve success together!"
Irvine joins Tete Yengi (Machida Zelvia) and Jason Geria (Albirex Niigata) as current Socceroos in the Japanese top flight.