Matsukubo is our second signing of the summer, after Katie McCabe, and will bolster Sonia Bompastor’s attacking options for the forthcoming campaign.

Here is all you need to know about our latest recruit…

How old is Manaka Matsukubo?

Manaka Matsukubo was born on 28 July 2004, so she is 21 years old and will turn 22 later this month.

Where is Manaka Matsukubo from?

Manaka Matsukubo hails from Kagoshima in the southernmost point of Japan. She has played club football in her home country as well as the USA.

Where does Manaka Matsukubo play?

Manaka Matsukubo is a versatile attacker best known for playing in the No.10 role or as a central striker.

What is Manaka Matsukubo like as a player?

Manaka Matsukubo is known for her creativity and ability to affect games in the final third and blends technical and tactical excellence. She is right-footed.

What international recognition has Manaka Matsukubo received?

Manaka Matsukubo enjoyed success for Japan’s youth teams, helping their Under-20 side reach the final of both the 2022 and 2024 World Cup for that age group. She was awarded the Silver Ball award for her performances at the latter tournament.

Matsukubo made her senior debut in February 2025 as Nadeshiko Japan triumphed in the SheBelieves Cup in America. Earlier this year, she helped Japan win the Asian Cup with another victory in the final against the tournament hosts, this time Australia.

She has scored twice in 19 senior appearances.

Who has Manaka Matsukubo played for?

Having graduated from the JFA Academy in Fukushima, Matsukubo joined Mynavi Sendai in her homeland. In 2023, she signed for North Caroline Courage, initially on loan before making the move permanent a few months later.

What honours has Manaka Matsukubo won?

Matsukubo won the NWSL Challenge Cup in 2023, scoring the second goal in a 2-0 win against Racing Louisville in the final. She was named the Player of the Match, too.

Last season, Matsukobo was chosen as the NWSL Midfielder of the Season and named in the league’s best XI.

At senior international level, Matsukobo has won the SheBelieves Cup and the Asian Cup.

How long is Manaka Matsukubo’s contract at Chelsea?

Matsukobo has signed a five-year contract at Chelsea, committing her future to the club until 2031.

What shirt number will Manaka Matsukubo wear at Chelsea?

She has taken on the No.29 shirt, which was previously assigned to Mara Alber.