Nakata is anxious for fresh start
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Nakata will be reunited with former coach Carlo Mazzone
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TOKYO, Japan (Reuters) -- Japan captain Hidetoshi Nakata is anxious to make a fresh start at Bologna following a frustrating spell with Italian rivals Parma.
With a six-month loan deal with Bologna expected to be formally announced on Friday, Nakata blamed a rift with Parma coach Cesare Prandelli for his decision to leave the cash-strapped club.
"I have decided to make a fresh start for the new year with a move to Bologna," Nakata said.
"Last season, I was being played out of position and still nothing has changed...even though the coach told me things would be different."
Nakata, who has failed to establish himself since joining Parma from AS Roma for $26 million in July 2001, has complained bitterly about playing in a defensive midfield role.
The 26-year-old has yet to complete a full match in 11 Serie A appearances this season.
"It is a shame and I take full responsibility. The way I want to play and the way I am being asked to play are different," said Nakata. "I apologize to the Parma fans."
Nakata will be reunited at Bologna with Carlo Mazzone, his former manager at Perugia, his first Italian club.
"Coach Mazzone was one of the biggest reasons for moving to Bologna," said the Japan captain.
"I spoke to him on the phone and he immediately put my mind at rest. He understands me as a player and as a person and I have absolute trust in him."
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