Chelsea sign Japan star Matsukubo on five-year deal from NWSL

Chelsea have signed Japan international Manaka Matsukubo on a five-year contract, strengthening their Women’s Super League squad with a proven performer from across the Atlantic. The 21-year-old midfielder arrives from National Women’s Soccer League outfit North Carolina Courage, as confirmed by the BBC.

Matsukubo, who has been capped 14 times by Japan, leaves the Courage having established herself as one of the standout midfielders in the American top flight. She scored 19 goals and set up a further ten in 58 appearances for the North Carolina club, form that earned her the NWSL midfielder of the year award in 2025.

A statement of intent from Chelsea

The length of the deal underlines the scale of Chelsea’s ambition, with the club committing to Matsukubo for half a decade. It represents a significant coup for the WSL, luring one of the NWSL’s brightest young talents across the Atlantic rather than losing players in the opposite direction, as has often been the trend in recent years.

Speaking after the move was confirmed, Matsukubo made clear the pull of Chelsea’s history played a major part in her decision. “I’m so excited to be joining Chelsea, a club with a lot of history,” she said.

“The club has a strong history of winning trophies and has done so well at the top of the game, so I couldn’t pass up this opportunity. I want to help continue this club’s tradition of winning trophies for years to come.”

Another creative option in midfield

Matsukubo’s goal contributions in the United States suggest she will offer Chelsea a genuine attacking threat from midfield, rather than a purely holding presence. Her record of nearly one goal or assist every two matches for North Carolina Courage points to a player capable of arriving late into the box as well as dictating play.

Her international pedigree with Japan, one of the most technically accomplished sides in the women’s game, will also be seen as a mark of quality by Chelsea’s recruitment staff. The signing adds further depth to a squad already packed with international talent as the club continues to chase domestic and European honours.

Chelsea have not disclosed a transfer fee for the move, though the switch from NWSL to WSL is likely to be closely watched by other English clubs assessing talent in the American league. Matsukubo becomes the latest high-profile arrival in a Women’s Super League that continues to attract players from across the globe.