WSL: Maika Hamano signs contract extension with Chelsea

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·11 September 2025

WSL: Maika Hamano signs contract extension with Chelsea

Chelsea have announced that Japanese international Maika Hamano has signed a new long-term contract. The extension will see the midfielder extend her stay until the summer of 2029.

After impressing at the U20 World Cup in 2022 — a tournament in which Hamano won the Golden Ball and Silver Boot — top clubs in Europe were circling. Following this successful tournament, the 21-year-old left her native side, INAC Kobe Leonessa, to move to West London.

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A short loan spell followed, which saw Hamano join Swedish side Hammarby IF. Here, she made 17 appearances, and scored seven goals before her season was cut short due to an unfortunate shoulder injury.

Making her debut in a 3-0 win against Bristol City in December 2023, Hamano completed her first 90 minutes against Aston Villa in April 2024. It was also in this match, that the Japanese international scored her first goal for the club. In total, she has made 39 appearances for the London side, scoring nine goals in all competitions.

Her time at Chelsea has been nothing short of successful. Winning both a domestic treble last season, and the league title in her first. Internationally, Hamano has become a prominent figure for the Japanese national side. In her 22 caps, she was part of the squad that won the 2025 SheBelievesCup, scoring twice on their route to victory.

“I’ve learned just how amazing it is to be part of Chelsea”

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Speaking on her extension, Hamano said: “Being able to work alongside amazing players and staff, and to give our all toward the same goal throughout a long season – that’s incredible. Of course, the fans are with us every step of the way, too. Through the fans, I’ve learned just how amazing it is to be part of Chelsea.”

Head of women’s football Paul Green, added: “We’re delighted to extend Maika’s deal at the club. She’s adapted well to the Women’s Super League and brings high energy to the team. She’s shown her quality and adaptability in being used in multiple positions. There’s still room for her to develop even further, and we look forward to seeing that development in the upcoming years.”