Kashima Antlers playmaker Masashi Motoyama called his move to Giravanz Kitakyushu on Saturday “a dream”, after the latter confirmed they would be signing him for next season.

The veteran who had represented Antlers since 1998 and had won 11 trophies with the club - six of them league titles - is to call time on his career in Kashima.

Motoyama’s contract will not be renewed for next season, and the Kitakyushu native has opted in favour of a move back to his hometown club in the MEIJI YASUDA J2 League.

“It is a dream,” he told Giravanz’s official website. “I want to bring new life to this club and will do my best to contribute to this side’s success.

“I hope to win the J2 League next season so that we can all achieve the promotion to J1.”

The side came close to achieving their target this season, finishing seventh in the second-tier standings.