D.C. United have completed the signing of Japanese defender and midfielder Kimito Nono from J1 League side Kashima Antlers, pending the receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
The 24-year-old has signed a three-year contract through the 2028/29 season, with an option for 2029/30, and will fill an international roster spot.
“We’re delighted to welcome Kimito to D.C. United,” said Managing Director of Soccer Operations Dr. Erkut Sogut. “He has established himself as one of the top right-sided players in the J1 League over the past few seasons. His ability to play at both right back and right midfield gives us valuable flexibility, while his defensive consistency and attacking quality make him an exciting addition to our squad.”
Nono joins Major League Soccer following a strong tenure with Kashima Antlers, where he emerged as one of Japan’s top young talents. At Kwansei Gakuin University, he made 64 appearances, scored 10 goals, and helped secure two JUFA Kansai League titles before turning professional.
He joined Kashima Antlers in 2024 and quickly made an impact, becoming the first university graduate to start the club’s opening league match since 1993. Nono scored his first professional goal in April 2024, securing a win against Kyoto Sanga, and finished his debut season with nine league goals from 47 shots. His finishing ability placed him among the J1 League’s top attackers.
His strong rookie season earned him a place in the J1 League Best XI, making him the first university graduate to receive this honor since 2020 and only the fifth in league history.
Nono maintained his form in 2025, making 21 league starts and contributing two goals and one assist as Kashima won their first J1 League title in nine years.
In 2026, he made 19 appearances, scored twice, and provided one assist as Kashima reached the J1 100-Year Vision League final. His defensive contributions helped the club achieve 11 clean sheets and earned him a spot in the J. League 100-Year Vision East Region Best XI.
The versatile Japanese international is expected to strengthen D.C. United’s right flank as the club continues to build its squad for the future.
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