PSV newcomer Kodai Sano has spoken about the difficult periods he experienced before completing his move to Eindhoven, admitting there were times when he wanted to leave NEC but was unable to do so.

The Japanese midfielder joined PSV last month after a period in which his future had been uncertain on several occasions.

Speaking to Voetbal International, Sano reflected on the lessons he learned from the previous season and explained how he tried to keep his focus on football despite the uncertainty surrounding his career.

“I don't have the experience of a player who has been doing this for a very long time. But last year was a very good learning experience,” Sano said.

“For me, what it comes down to first and foremost is: I love football. I can always return to that feeling if something happens that I don't yet understand or that I have no influence on. Back to my love for football and showing that on the pitch.”

Sano had several opportunities to leave NEC before eventually joining PSV.

During the winter break last season, Ajax showed interest in the midfielder, while TSG Hoffenheim appeared to be close to securing his services during the summer.

However, the German club eventually abandoned the transfer after signing Nathan De Cat.

Nottingham Forest were also interested, but NEC ultimately decided not to allow Sano to leave.

The situation proved difficult for the Japanese midfielder, who had to continue playing despite knowing there had been opportunities elsewhere.

“That was a tough period. I wanted to go, but it couldn't,” Sano admitted, as quoted by PSV Inside.

“I tried to stay calm and understand the decisions.”

Rather than allowing the failed transfers to dominate his thoughts, Sano said he deliberately redirected his attention towards his football.

“Luckily, I can focus very well on football, because I know that if I don't, I'm more likely to get injured. I don't want that.”

The midfielder acknowledged that dealing with circumstances outside his control was not easy, but insisted that dwelling on them would not help.

“It's not easy, but if I think too much about things that do or don't happen, it doesn't help me. I shift my thoughts then.”

His focus was ultimately on remaining fit and continuing to play.

“I'm happy because I'm healthy and can play football.”

Sano has also regained his place in the Japan national team after being left out of the squad for last summer's World Cup in North America.

The PSV midfielder started Japan's 3-1 friendly victory over Uruguay last Thursday before being replaced by Daichi Kamada midway through the match.

He was subsequently an unused substitute against Venezuela, with Japan winning 2-1 thanks to two goals from former Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda.

Sano also remained on the bench for Japan's 0-0 draw with Ecuador.

The midfielder's return to international football comes after a turbulent period in his club career, one that ultimately ended with his move from NEC to PSV.

After failed moves to Ajax, Hoffenheim and interest from Nottingham Forest, Sano now has the opportunity to establish himself at PSV while continuing to develop at both club and international level.