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Chelsea FC have officially secured the signature of Japanese international midfielder Manaka Matsukubo from the National Women’s Soccer League side, North Carolina Courage. The 21-year-old has penned a five-year deal with the Blues after a stellar campaign that saw her claim the NWSL Midfielder of the Year honour, bolstering Chelsea’s midfield strength ahead of the upcoming season.

Matsukubo begins a new journey

When Matsukubo first arrived at North Carolina Courage on loan in 2023, few could have anticipated the remarkable impact she would make. Within months, her performances earned her a permanent contract in 2024. She quickly became a key component in the side’s midfield, netting in the 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup and collecting the tournament’s MVP award.

Her rise continued in 2025 when she was named NWSL Midfielder of the Year after an impressive tally of 11 goals and four assists over the course of the season.

During her three-year spell with the Courage, Matsukubo made 58 regular-season appearances, scoring 19 goals and contributing 10 assists. She now makes the move to Chelsea FC on a five-year contract, with both clubs finalising the transfer on Friday.

‘I’m so excited to be joining Chelsea’

Speaking after the announcement, Matsukubo expressed her excitement, saying, “I’m so excited to be joining Chelsea, a club with a lot of history.” The 21-year-old added that she has admired the club since her childhood.

“When I was a kid, I followed Chelsea because it is a club known across the world,” she said. “The team has a proud tradition of winning trophies and performing at the highest level, so I couldn’t turn down this opportunity. I want to help continue this club’s legacy of success for years to come.”

Making an impact on the international stage

Although Matsukubo only broke into Japan’s senior national team last year, she has already made a notable impression. She played a vital role in Japan’s triumph at the SheBelieves Cup and contributed significantly to their victory in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, where Japan defeated hosts Australia. She currently boasts 19 international caps and two goals.

Before stepping up to the senior level, Matsukubo represented Japan’s Under-20 side, helping them finish as runners-up at the 2022 and 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cups. Her outstanding performances in 2024 earned her the Silver Ball award.

Joining Chelsea at a pivotal moment

Matsukubo’s arrival comes at a transitional period for Chelsea FC, as several long-serving stars have departed for the NWSL. The club has recently seen Sam Kerr, Guro Reiten, and Catarina Macario move to American teams, marking the start of a new era for the Blues’ women’s side.