Former Vissel Kobe manager Masahiro Wada is likely to succeed Ryoichi Kawakatsu as manager of second-division club Kyoto Sanga next season, informed sources told Kyodo News on Sunday.

Under the 56-year-old Kawakatsu who took the helm during the 2014 season, Kyoto has languished in the standings. With just one game remaining, the J2 club is in eighth place with a record of 14-10 with 17 draws. It is the fourth consecutive year Kyoto has failed to earn a promotion to the J. League top division.

Kyoto club president Hiroshi Imai said age will be a factor in determining Kawakatsu’s successor. The 49-year-old Wada, who managed Chonburi in the Thai Premier League this season, appears to fit the bill.

“Someone in their 40s is ideal (for the manager’s post next season),” said Imai.