Yokohama F. Marinos on Wednesday announced the signing of midfielder Kensei Nakashima to a ‘Pro A’ contract.

The 20-year-old qualified for the upgrade after earning his 450th minute of playing time during the team’s 2017 J.League YBC Levain Cup match against Cerezo Osaka on March 15. 

He has yet to appear for F. Marinos in the J1 League, instead earning his time in cup competitions.

“It took more time than I thought it would to earn an ‘A’ contract, but it’s important that I did it with this club,” Nakashima said. 

“I’m thankful to everyone who has supported me and I want to work hard and keep improving as a player.”