Manchester City have signed Japanese international goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita on a deal until the summer of 2027.
The 28-year-old six-time Japanese top flight winner has 74 caps for her country, played over 100 times for NTV Tokyo Verdy Beleza, before joining INAC Kobe Leonessa in 2021.
Yamashita said: “During my time at Beleza, I used to play with Yui Hasegawa, who is here now, so she is very encouraging. I’m really looking forward to playing with her again.
Manchester City Women Managing Director Charlotte O’Neill said: “Ayaka is an impressive goalkeeper and serial winner with an even more impressive number of domestic trophies to her name.
“It has been a pleasure watching her on the world stage during her second Olympics these last few weeks, and as we continue to evolve, having a player with attributes like Ayaka’s will help us challenge for honours for years to come. Ayaka will bring a fresh dynamic and even more experience to the team.”
Head Coach Gareth Taylor added: “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 to the team.”
