Japanese prodigy Tomoki Iwata joins Birmingham City

Iwata makes his way from Celtic to St. Andrew's

Japanese youth international signs three-year deal with Blues

Japanese youth international Tomoki Iwata has joined Championship club Birmingham City on a three-year deal from Scottish Premiership side Celtic.

The 20-year-old midfielder, who can also play as a forward, has been capped by Japan at Under-20 and Under-23 level.

He began his career with Omiya Ardija in his homeland before moving to Celtic in 2022.

Iwata made 11 appearances for Celtic's first team, scoring one goal.

He also had a loan spell at St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership, where he made 13 appearances and scored one goal.

Iwata is Birmingham City's fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of John Ruddy, Przemyslaw Placheta and Dion Sanderson.

The Blues are managed by John Eustace, who was appointed in the summer after leaving Queens Park Rangers.

Tomoki Iwata's playing style

Iwata is a versatile player who can play in a number of positions.

He is a good passer of the ball and has a good eye for goal.

He is also a hard worker and is always willing to track back and defend.

Iwata's role at Birmingham City

Iwata is expected to play a key role in Birmingham City's midfield.

He is likely to be given the opportunity to play in a number of positions.

He will be hoping to help the Blues achieve promotion to the Premier League this season.

Iwata's international career

Iwata has been capped by Japan at Under-20 and Under-23 level.

He was part of the Japan Under-20 team that won the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

He is hoping to break into the Japan senior team in the near future.