Yui Hasegawa is recognized as one of the best midfielders in women’s football, renowned for her technical brilliance, versatility, and football intelligence. From her early days in Japan to starring for Manchester City and the Japan national team, Hasegawa’s journey is a testament to skill, adaptability, and leadership.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on January 29, 1997, in Sendai, Miyagi, Japan, Yui Hasegawa grew up in Toda, Saitama. She joined Tokyo Verdy Beleza’s youth academy at age 12, quickly establishing herself as a standout talent. By 16, she debuted for the senior team, marking the start of a remarkable professional career in Japanese football’s top flight.
Club Career: From Tokyo to Manchester
Tokyo Verdy Beleza
Hasegawa spent eight seasons with Tokyo Verdy Beleza, making 148 league appearances and scoring 19 goals. She helped the club win five consecutive Japanese league titles and became a key figure in their domestic and continental success.
AC Milan
In 2021, Hasegawa moved to Europe, signing with AC Milan. She made an immediate impact, scoring three goals in nine league matches during her brief stint in Italy.
West Ham United
Later in 2021, she joined West Ham United in the Women’s Super League. Hasegawa played 17 matches and scored twice, quickly adapting to the English game and catching the attention of top clubs.
Manchester City
In September 2022, Hasegawa signed with Manchester City, stepping into a pivotal midfield role. She adapted seamlessly, becoming the team’s defensive midfield anchor and orchestrating play from deep. Hasegawa scored her first City goal in a 4–0 win over Leicester and was nominated for the WSL Player of the Month in January 2023. Her performances earned her a spot in the PFA WSL Team of the Year and a Ballon d’Or nomination. In January 2024, she extended her contract with City until 2027, underlining her importance to the squad. She played a vital role in City’s record-breaking 13-match league win streak and their second-place WSL finish in 2023–24, and was again nominated for the Ballon d’Or Féminin.
International Career: Nadeshiko Japan’s Midfield Leader
Hasegawa has represented Japan at every youth level, starring at the U-17 and U-20 World Cups. She won the 2014 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and earned the Silver Ball as the tournament’s second-best player. She made her senior debut in 2017 and has since earned over 90 caps, scoring 20 goals as of April 20251.
She played key roles in the 2018 AFC Women’s Asian Cup triumph, the 2018 Asian Games gold medal, and Japan’s runs at the 2019 and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cups, as well as the 2020 and 2024 Olympics. Hasegawa’s equalizer against the Netherlands at the 2019 World Cup was nominated for Goal of the Tournament. She was also part of the Japan squad that won the 2025 SheBelieves Cup.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
-
Five-time Japanese league champion with Tokyo Verdy Beleza
-
UEFA Women’s Champions League appearances with Milan and Manchester City
-
PFA WSL Team of the Year (2022/23, 2023/24)
-
Ballon d’Or Féminin nominee (2023, 2024)
-
2014 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup winner and Silver Ball recipient
-
2018 AFC Women’s Asian Cup and Asian Games champion
-
Over 90 caps and 20 goals for Japan
Hasegawa is celebrated for her technical skill, vision, press resistance, and ability to dictate tempo both offensively and defensively. She is lauded for her leadership, composure, and tactical intelligence.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As a global star, Hasegawa commands a top salary at Manchester City. Reports estimate her annual salary at $1 million, with a net worth around $5 million as of 2023. She is partnered with major sports brands and enjoys a strong social media presence, boasting over 100,000 Instagram followers7.
-
Estimated Salary: $1 million per year at Manchester City
-
Net Worth: Approximately $5 million
-
Endorsements: Major sports brands in Japan and England
-
Social Media: Active on Instagram (@yui___hasegawa) and Twitter (@maybe10_)
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Yui Hasegawa is known for her humility, professionalism, and commitment to inspiring young players. She is admired for her discipline and for being a role model for aspiring footballers in Japan and worldwide.
FAQs About Yui Hasegawa
-
What position does Yui Hasegawa play?
She is a midfielder, excelling as a defensive anchor but also capable in attacking roles. -
Which clubs has Yui Hasegawa played for?
She has played for Tokyo Verdy Beleza, AC Milan, West Ham United, and Manchester City. -
What are Yui Hasegawa’s top achievements?
Five Japanese league titles, Asian Cup and Asian Games gold medals, PFA WSL Team of the Year, and World Cup and Olympic appearances. -
How much does Yui Hasegawa earn?
Her estimated annual salary is $1 million, with a net worth of $5 million. -
How many caps and goals does Yui Hasegawa have for Japan?
As of April 2025, she has over 90 caps and 20 goals for the national team.
Conclusion
Yui Hasegawa’s journey from Japan’s youth leagues to the heart of Manchester City’s midfield is a testament to her talent, adaptability, and leadership. As she continues to excel for club and country, Hasegawa inspires a new generation of footballers in Japan and around the world.
