Aoba Fujino is one of the most exciting young forwards in world football, celebrated for her pace, technical skill, and composure in front of goal. After starring in the Japanese WE League, she now brings her attacking flair to Manchester City and the Japan national team.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on January 27, 2004, in Machida, Tokyo, Japan, Aoba Fujino began her football journey with Minamiosawa FC before joining the Tokyo Verdy Sereias youth setup. She later attended Jumonji High School, where she continued to develop her talent, before returning to Tokyo Verdy Beleza and breaking into their first team.
Club Career: From Tokyo to Manchester
Tokyo Verdy Beleza
Fujino made her WE League debut for Tokyo Verdy Beleza in October 2021. Over three seasons, she scored 24 goals in 51 league appearances, earning accolades such as WE League Most Valuable Player (2021–22, 2022–23) and Best XI honors. Her performances marked her as one of Japan’s brightest young stars.
Manchester City
On August 2, 2024, Fujino signed a three-year contract with Manchester City, becoming the club’s third summer signing. She made an immediate impact, scoring her first goal for City in a 3–2 UEFA Women’s Champions League win over St. Pölten in October 2024. By March 2025, she had made 15 league appearances and scored once, while also contributing in cup and European competitions with her trademark speed and creativity.
International Career: Japan’s Youngest World Cup Goalscorer
Fujino represented Japan at the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, helping her team reach the final and earning the tournament’s Bronze Boot. She made her senior international debut the same year and was selected for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. On July 26, 2023, she became the youngest Japanese player to score at a World Cup (men’s or women’s) with a goal against Costa Rica. She was also part of Japan’s squad for the 2024 Summer Olympics and contributed to their victory at the 2025 SheBelieves Cup.
As of March 2025, Fujino has 29 senior caps and 8 goals for Japan, including strikes in major tournaments and friendlies.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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WE League Most Valuable Player (2021–22, 2022–23)
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WE League Best XI (2022–23)
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FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Bronze Boot (2022)
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Youngest Japanese World Cup goalscorer (2023)
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2025 SheBelieves Cup winner with Japan
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Over 90 senior club appearances and 37 career goals by early 2025
Fujino is celebrated for her blistering pace, technical ability, and composure in key moments, making her a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As a rising star in the Women’s Super League and a regular Japan international, Fujino commands a competitive salary at Manchester City, with strong potential for growth as her profile rises. She is beginning to attract attention from global sports brands and Japanese sponsors.
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Estimated Salary: Competitive for a young WSL starter, with significant growth potential
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Endorsements: Early partnerships in Japan and Europe, expected to grow with continued success
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Future Prospects: Increased commercial opportunities as she cements her place in club and international football
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Aoba Fujino is known for her humility, focus, and commitment to improvement. She is admired for overcoming early career challenges and for her dedication to inspiring the next generation of Japanese footballers.
FAQs About Aoba Fujino
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What position does Aoba Fujino play?
She is a forward, known for her speed, dribbling, and finishing. -
Which clubs has Aoba Fujino played for?
Tokyo Verdy Beleza and Manchester City. -
What are Aoba Fujino’s top achievements?
WE League MVP, U-20 World Cup Bronze Boot, youngest Japanese World Cup goalscorer, and SheBelieves Cup winner. -
How many goals has Aoba Fujino scored for Japan?
8 goals in 29 senior international appearances as of March 2025. -
How old is Aoba Fujino?
She was born on January 27, 2004.
Conclusion
Aoba Fujino’s journey from Tokyo’s youth leagues to starring for Manchester City and Japan highlights her exceptional talent, determination, and ambition. As she continues to develop, she is set to become one of the leading figures in women’s football, inspiring fans in Japan and around the world.
