Yokohama F. Marinos on Thursday announced that centre-back Yuji Nakazawa will serve as the team’s captain for the coming season.

The 39-year-old has played for the Nissan Stadium residents since the 2002 season, making nearly 600 total appearances for the club in addition to almost 100 more for Tokyo Verdy at the start of his career.

“It’s an incredible honor to be named captain,” Nakazawa commented. 

“My title may change but I want to continue to play as I always do. I want to make sure we treat each day importantly.”

Defender Yuzo Kurihara, goalkeeper Hiroki Ikura and midfielder Takuya Kida will retain their vice-captain positions from last season, joined by newly-elected midfielder Kosuke Nakamachi.