Kashima Antlers on Tuesday announced the full transfer of Caio to UAE club Al Ain, though the winger hopes for a return. 

The 22-year-old Sao Paulo native joined Antlers after graduating from a Japanese high school in 2014 and was named that season’s Best Young Player. 

He leaves the J.League having recorded 23 goals in 78 appearances and hopes for a return to Kashima Stadium one day.

“I’m incredibly grateful for all of the fans who have supported me since the day I joined Antlers,” Caio said in a statement. “I’m sorry for those who will be saddened by this announcement.

“I hope that I can return to Kashima one day and repay the club. From today I’ll walk down a new path but I’ll continue to support Kashima Antlers and hope you’ll continue to support me in my new challenge.”