Japanese defender Koki Kawachi has signed for Hougang United! The 26-year-old centre-back joins the Cheetahs ahead of the new Singapore Premier League season, bringing valuable league-winning experience and familiarity with Singaporean football.
With the transfer now complete, Kawachi joins his new teammates as preparations continue for the upcoming campaign.
A composed and intelligent centre-back, Kawachi is known for his ability to read the game, organise the defensive line and remain calm in possession. Comfortable building attacks from the back, he combines strong defensive awareness with excellent positioning and composure under pressure.
Born in Gifu, Japan, Kawachi came through the youth systems of Tajimi ZELOFC, Nagoya Grampus and Gifu VAMOS before continuing his development at Seiryo High School and Chukyo University. He made the move to Singapore in 2023, joining Albirex Niigata (S) to begin his professional career.
During his time with Albirex Niigata (S), Kawachi established himself as one of the Singapore Premier League's most consistent defenders. He played a key role as the club lifted the 2023 Singapore Premier League title and the Singapore Community Shield, while his performances earned him recognition as one of the league's standout centre-backs.
Now, after proving himself in Singapore and gaining further experience abroad, Kawachi returns to the Singapore Premier League to begin a new chapter with Hougang United. His arrival adds quality, leadership and defensive stability to the Cheetahs ahead of the new season.
Everyone at Hougang United would like to extend a warm welcome to Koki Kawachi. We wish him every success in orange and black and look forward to seeing him represent the Cheetahs throughout the upcoming campaign.