Koki Machida
TSGJapan
Left
Aug 25, 1997
28
6'3"
185 lb
CB
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HoffenheimDeemed fit
Machida (knee) is an option for play for the end of the season, according to manager Christian Ilzer. "Koki has taken part in almost all training sessions and has made further progress. So, we have a lot of players to choose from."
Analysis: Machida was nearing a return last week, but is now officially fit, as he has been cleared of his knee injury after training all week. After a long injury-absence dating back to the second match of the season, this is good news for the defender, as he will look to find a few minutes before the close of the season. However, they may still be cautious despite his starting role to begin the campaign.
Training but still out
Machida (knee) is back in training but won't be an option for Saturday's game against Stuttgart, according to manager Christian Ilzer. "[Koki] Machida is not an option yet, but he was able to participate in parts of team training."
Analysis: Machida continues to clear hurdles on his proposed return to action before the end of the 2025/26 season, but since he won't play this weekend, he'll only have two more chances to feature before the end of the Bundesliga campaign. If healthy, Machida should represent Japan in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Machida's next chance to play will come against Werder Bremen on Saturday, May 9.
Completes partial training
Machida (knee) took part in some training work with the team for the first time since starting his recovery in August, the team reported Tuesday.
Analysis: Machida is making progress toward his return from an ACL tear that sidelined practically for the entire 2025/26 season. However, he may be ready to play at some point before the World Cup, likely getting minutes as a substitute before being able to challenge Ozan Kabak and Albian Hajdari at center-back.
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