D.C. United has signed 24-year-old Japanese midfielder and defender Kimito Nono from the J1 League’s Kashima Antlers, pending receipt of his P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate. Nono has agreed to a three-year contract through the 2028-29 season with an option for 2029-30, occupying an international roster spot in Major League Soccer.
Rising Star from Japan’s J1 League Joins D.C. United
Kimito Nono, primarily a right back and right midfielder, began his professional career after a successful collegiate tenure at Kwansei Gakuin University, where he made 64 appearances, scored 10 goals, and helped secure two JUFA Kansai League titles. He debuted for Kashima Antlers in February 2024, becoming the first university graduate to start Kashima’s season opener since 1993.
In his rookie season, Nono scored nine goals and earned a spot on the J1 League Best XI, becoming the first university rookie to receive this honor since 2020. He played a key role in Kashima’s 2025 J1 League championship, their first title in nine years, starting 21 matches with two goals and one assist. In 2026, he made 19 appearances with two goals and one assist, contributing to Kashima’s run to the J1 100 Year Vision League final and earning a place on the J. League 100-Year Vision East Region Best XI.
D.C. United Values Versatility and Skill
Dr. Erkut Sogut, managing director of soccer operations for D.C. United, praised Nono’s versatility and abilities. “Kimito has been an outstanding player for Kashima Antlers the past couple of seasons and has established himself as one of the best right-sided players in the J League,” Sogut said. “He plays both right back and right midfield, and that versatility is something we value highly. He combines defensive reliability with exceptional attacking instincts. We are excited to welcome him to our club and look forward to seeing the impact he will make on the field.”
Standing 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall and weighing 148 pounds (67 kg), Nono’s athleticism and technical skills are expected to help strengthen D.C. United’s lineup. Having previously played under former Kashima coach René Weiler, now D.C. United’s head coach, should facilitate his transition to Major League Soccer.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
D.C. United’s acquisition of Kimito Nono reflects a strategic decision to bolster their squad with a young, adaptable player experienced in a top Asian league. Nono’s capacity to perform in both defensive and midfield roles provides head coach René Weiler with increased tactical options. With a history of contributing goals and assists from wide positions, Nono could play a significant role in D.C. United’s offensive and defensive schemes. This signing fits a broader MLS trend prioritizing the integration of skilled international talents early in their careers to elevate the league’s competitiveness.
Source: Original report
Player Profile
- Name: Kimito Nono
- Position: Midfielder/Defender
- Birthplace: Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan
- Country: Japan
- Birthdate: March 26, 2002
- Age: 24
- Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
- Weight: 148 lbs (67 kg)
- Status: International
- Transaction: Signed three-year contract with D.C. United through 2028-29 with option for 2029-30; occupies international roster spot.
