Man City complete signing of Japanese rising star Aoba Fujino

Manchester City have completed the signing of Aoba Fujino, one of Japan's most promising rising stars.

The 20-year-old forward joins the Manchester club on a three-year deal until 2027 from WE League club Tokyo Verdy Beleza, where she had spent the entirety of her senior career so far. Fujino was a breakout star at the 2023 Women's World Cup and became Japan's youngest ever goalscorer in the tournament with a goal against Costa Rica in the group stage.

She is representing her country at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris this summer and Japan have made a positive start to the tournament, progressing to the knockout stages. Fujino has been a standout performer once again, scoring against Spain in their first group game.

Fujino believes the Women's Super League is the perfect place to continue her development, as she told the club website: "In the league, this is a top-level club both physically and technically. That is something that I find very appealing, the size of the team and the organisation. It's very important to play in this kind of environment. This way I can improve myself, focusing on my speed and quick decision making."

She will join compatriot Yui Hasegawa, who has been an ever present in City's midfield since she arrived at the club two years ago.

"She said that the club is very good," Fujino continued. "The way that they play with the build-up in games, even against the other football teams, even if you aren't as physical, we have a very excellent technique so we can exceed other clubs.

"And also, she said the players are very nice and kind, so this is a very good thing!"

City's managing director, Charlotte O'Neill, added: "Aoba is an impressive striker whose signing shows our ambition and intent to challenge for silverware if you play for City. She will be a fantastic addition to the squad.

Manager Taylor also said: "Aoba brings even more excitement and technical quality to the team. She is still young, but has already established herself on the international stage and we are delighted to bring her to our club."

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