Manchester City sign Japan’s Ayaka Yamashita
Manchester City secure Japan goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita until 2027 Credit: None
Manchester City have announced the signing of Japanese international goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita on a contract running until the summer of 2027.
The 28-year-old arrives with an impressive track record, having won six Japanese league titles and 17 major honours during her career.
Yamashita expressed her excitement about the move, saying, "It is a great honour to join such a wonderful club and team. I’ve won various trophies in Asia, but to level up myself, I felt the need to take on a challenge."
She will reunite with former teammate Yui Hasegawa at City and is looking forward to the new opportunities ahead.
"I’m really looking forward to playing with her again," Yamashita added.
The Japanese star will compete for the number one spot at Manchester City while Sandy MacIver recovers from injury.
City’s Managing Director, Charlotte O’Neill, praised Yamashita as an "impressive goalkeeper and serial winner".
Head Coach Gareth Taylor also expressed his enthusiasm: "We’re delighted to bring Ayaka to Manchester City. She is another player who will bring even more international experience into the squad, and we’re looking forward to welcoming her aboard and working with her over the next three years."
