Maika Hamano, an 18-year-old Japanese forward, has signed with Chelsea Women. The highly regarded youngster will make a loan move to Hammarby IF in Sweden before the 2023 season.
Hamano, who plays for her nation of birth, Japan, joins the club from INAC Kobe Leonessa of the WE League. She has a deal with the Blues that lasts through the summer of 2027.
Hamano expressed her excitement about joining Chelsea by saying, “I am incredibly happy to sign for a team which in my opinion is number one in the world.”
Manager Emma Hayes commented: ‘Maika is a fantastic talent, she is a Golden Ball and Silver Boot winner having shone at the Under-20 World Cup last year. We are really looking forward to seeing how Maika develops during her time out on loan with Hammarby IF in Sweden.’
