NEC Nijmegen Director frustrated as Kodai Sano’s move to PSV nears completion

The director of NEC Nijmegen is expressing frustration as the transfer of Japanese international Kodai Sano to PSV moves closer to completion. It appears Sano's departure from NEC may not be without controversy. While both parties have agreed to a transfer fee of €20 million, tensions have emerged over Sano's decision to leave Greece ahead of NEC's Champions League qualifying game against Olympiakos.

According to Voetbal International, Sano informed manager Dick Schreuder that he was unable to play, despite being an expected starter. Technical Director Carlos Aalbers expressed his disappointment, stating that "this is extremely annoying and very disappointing. (Playing) Agreements have been broken." He emphasized that the club does not want a player who lacks commitment.

Despite efforts to persuade Sano to change his mind, he requested a meeting with the manager on Tuesday and stated he cannot play. Last season, Sano was a key player for NEC, making 34 Eredivisie appearances, scoring three goals, and providing seven assists as the team secured a third-place finish and their first Champions League spot.

Without Sano's contribution, NEC drew 0-0 against Olympiakos in the away leg of their qualifying round. Sano is currently undergoing a medical in Eindhoven and is expected to be officially presented as a PSV player later this week.