SC Freiburg have completed the permanent signing of Japanese midfielder Rihito Yamamoto from Belgian Pro League side Sint-Truiden. The transfer was confirmed by the Bundesliga club on Friday, with sporting director Klemens Hartenbach praising Yamamoto’s versatility and potential. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
Yamamoto, 24, joins Freiburg after two seasons with Sint-Truiden, where he established himself as a key player. During the 2025/26 season, the midfielder contributed five goals and eight assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. He initially signed for Sint-Truiden in July 2024 from Vissel Kobe in his native Japan.
Freiburg’s interest in Yamamoto appears to have been influenced by current player Yuito Suzuki, also Japanese, who reportedly spoke positively about the club to Yamamoto. The midfielder stated that playing in the Bundesliga had always been a significant ambition, and he was eager to develop his game alongside his new teammates. “I’m really looking forward to playing here,” Yamamoto said.
Hartenbach highlighted Yamamoto’s multifaceted skillset as a major factor in the club’s decision to pursue him. He believes the player’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will be a valuable asset to the team. The sporting director also emphasized the importance of helping Yamamoto refine his game and adapt to the demands of the Bundesliga.
Freiburg finished ninth in the Bundesliga last season and will be looking to build on that performance with the addition of Yamamoto. The signing addresses a need for midfield depth and provides coach Christian Streich with another creative option in the center of the pitch. Yamamoto’s arrival could provide increased competition for places and contribute to Freiburg’s ambitions of challenging for European qualification.
