Man City sign new midfielder to aid WSL title pursuit | OneFootball

Manchester City have announced the signing of midfielder Aemu Oyama. The Japanese international has penned a two-and-a-half-year deal and will join Gareth Taylor’s team as they strive to lift the Women’s Super League title.

The 20-year-old becomes City’s second signing of the January transfer window, alongside German defender Rebecca Knaak. The young prospect, who will wear No.30, joins the Citizens from Waseda Univeristy. This move will see Oyama add to the strong Japanese contingent already playing in sky blue, and learn from one of the best in Yui Hasegawa.

Since her professional debut with Tokyo Verdy Beleza in 2021, Oyama has been one of Japan’s most exciting prospects. She also featured in the U-20 Women’s World Cup, scoring in the 7-0 win against New Zealand.

Oyama on her move

Following her move, Oyama said: “My first game could be against Manchester United at the Etihad. I’m aware of how enormous this game is and if I’m given a chance I’d like to show my playing style.

“My dream is to play in the Champions League. I’d like to be able to contribute to the team as soon as I can. And as a young player, now that I’m in this team I want to play as many games as possible. Seeing other young players [getting chances] inspires me to work hard like them.”

Aemu Oyama of Manchester City signs her contract at Manchester City Football Academy on January 14, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Isaac Parkin/Manchester City FC)

Manchester City Women Director of Football, Therese Sjogran added: “Aemu is a very technically gifted player, there’s a real buzz about her. She’ll be exciting to watch this season and beyond, and there is real potential for her to become even better. She’s already broken ground in Japan at a very young age and will be an exciting addition to the squad here in Manchester.”

Manchester City will return to action this Sunday with a huge match against their rivals in the Manchester Derby. The match will kick off at 6.45pm from the Etihad. You can watch the action live on Sky Sports in the UK.

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