Manchester City have acquired Japanese forward Aoba Fujino on a three-year deal from Tokyo Verdy Beleza. Currently, Fujino is part of the Japan squad competing at the Paris Olympics, where they will take on the USA in the quarter-finals on Saturday. She will join the Manchester City team when they head to Perth later in August for a friendly tournament.
The 20-year-old has been assigned the No 20 jersey in Gareth Taylor’s squad, marking her as the third signing of the summer. Recognized as one of Japan’s most promising talents, Fujino gained significant attention during her performance at the 2022 Under-20 World Cup. She made headlines last year by becoming her country’s youngest senior World Cup goalscorer with a goal against Costa Rica in Australia and New Zealand.
She netted Japan’s first goal in a 2-1 defeat to Spain during the Olympics this summer. Over her three years with Tokyo Verdy Beleza, she scored 24 goals and provided 17 assists across 51 appearances.
Fujino joins Manchester City following the summer acquisitions of Netherlands striker Vivianne Miedema from Arsenal and her fellow Japan international, right-back Risa Shimizu.
“This club is a top-level team both physically and technically,” Fujino remarked about her move to the Women’s Super League. “The scale and organization of the club are very appealing to me. Playing in such an environment is crucial. This club has a rich history, and I am incredibly excited to be here.”
Gareth Taylor commended Fujino’s “technical quality,” while Charlotte O’Neill, managing director of City’s women’s team, stated: “Aoba is an outstanding striker, and her signing highlights our ambition and determination to compete for trophies. She will be a tremendous asset to our squad.”
Meanwhile, Manchester United has confirmed the signing of Swedish full-back Anna Sandberg from BK Häcken — a move first reported by the Guardian on Wednesday — for a fee believed to set a record for a Swedish player.
The 21-year-old has entered into a three-year contract, which includes an option for an additional year. She was part of the Sweden team that clinched third place at last year’s World Cup.
after newsletter promotion
“I’m thrilled and thankful to join this prestigious club,” Sandberg shared. “I hope to support the team with my skills and create numerous victorious moments for our amazing fans.”
