Chelsea Women have confirmed the signing of Manaka Matsukubo from North Carolina Courage on a five-year deal. The 21-year-old Japan international joins the reigning Women’s Super League champions, who are currently 3rd in the FA WSL with 49 points from 22 games, having scored 44 goals and conceded 20.

What does this signing mean for Chelsea Women?

Matsukubo's arrival adds another attacking option to Sonia Bompastor's squad, with the young midfielder capable of playing as both an attacking midfielder and central striker. She has already made a name for herself in the NWSL, scoring 19 goals in 60 appearances for North Carolina Courage and winning the NWSL Midfielder of the Year award last season.

How will Matsukubo fit into the team?

With her creativity, technical quality, and eye for goal, Matsukubo is expected to make an immediate impact for Chelsea Women, who are 6 points behind leaders Manchester City W in the title race. Matsukubo has also enjoyed success with Japan at both youth and senior level, helping her country reach the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup final in 2022 and 2024, and winning the SheBelieves Cup and the AFC Women’s Asian Cup with the senior team.

What's next for Chelsea Women?

The signing of Matsukubo is a major coup for Chelsea Women, who will be looking to close the gap on Manchester City W in the coming weeks. With Matsukubo on board, the team will be hoping to build on their recent form, which has seen them win four of their last five games, and make a push for the title.