J-League giants Cerezo Osaka have officially announced the signing of Dion Cools, the key defender of the Malaysian national team, Harimau Malaya.

The Malaysia-Belgium mixed heritage player ends his two-season stint with Buriram United, where he clinched multiple titles including the Thai League 1 and Shopee Cup.

"I’m very happy to be in Japan, especially in Osaka. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity. I can’t wait to meet my new teammates, the coaching staff, fans and supporters soon!"
– Dion Cools

Dion also expressed his determination to give his very best, help the team secure victories, and pursue his personal goals at Cerezo Osaka.

He is expected to join the team’s training sessions right after completing his national duty with Malaysia, who are set to face Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers at Bukit Jalil National Stadium.