Maika Hamano is one of the brightest young forwards in world football. Known for her speed, agility, and technical skill, she has quickly risen through the ranks to become a key player for Chelsea and the Japan national team. Her achievements at youth and senior levels mark her as a future star on the global stage.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 9, 2004, in Japan, Hamano began her professional career at just 14 with Cerezo Osaka Sakai. Her early promise was evident as she scored regularly and stood out in youth competitions, quickly earning a move to top-flight side INAC Kobe Leonessa, where she won the WE League title in her debut season.
Club Career
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Cerezo Osaka Sakai (2018–2021): Made her senior debut at 14, scoring 17 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions.
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INAC Kobe Leonessa (2021–2023): Won the WE League title and continued her development, adding 5 goals in 24 matches.
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Chelsea (2023–present): Signed in January 2023. Immediately loaned to Hammarby IF in Sweden, where she scored 7 goals in 17 league games before a shoulder injury. Returned to Chelsea, debuting in the Women’s Super League in December 2023. As of April 2025, she has 35 appearances and 8 goals for Chelsea across all competitions.
International Career
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Youth Level: Starred at the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, winning the Golden Ball (best player) and Silver Boot (second top scorer) as Japan finished runners-up.
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Senior Level: Debuted for Japan in October 2022. Included in the squads for the 2023 Women’s World Cup, the 2024 Olympics, and helped Japan win the 2025 SheBelieves Cup. As of February 2025, she has 19 senior caps and 6 goals.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Speed & Agility: Exceptional acceleration and quick feet, making her a constant threat in one-on-one situations.
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Dribbling & Ball Control: Excellent at beating defenders, with sharp movement and close control.
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Versatility: Can play across the front line and as an attacking midfielder.
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Vision & Passing: Creates opportunities for teammates with incisive passes.
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Finishing: Clinical in front of goal, capable of scoring with both feet.
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Work Rate: Presses high and is proactive in recovering possession.
Career Stats (as of April 2025)
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Date of Birth: May 9, 2004
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Age: 20
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Height: 1.65 m
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Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder
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Current Club: Chelsea FC Women
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Chelsea Appearances: 35
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Chelsea Goals: 8
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Japan Senior Caps: 19
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Japan Senior Goals: 6
Achievements and Honors
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WE League Champion (INAC Kobe Leonessa)
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Golden Ball & Silver Boot, 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup
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SheBelieves Cup Winner (2025, Japan)
Frequently Asked Questions About Maika Hamano
How old is Maika Hamano?
She is 20 years old, born on May 9, 2004.
What position does Maika Hamano play?
She plays as a forward and attacking midfielder for Chelsea and Japan.
What are Maika Hamano’s major achievements?
She has won the WE League, the U-20 World Cup Golden Ball and Silver Boot, and the SheBelieves Cup with Japan.
What makes Maika Hamano stand out?
Her speed, dribbling, technical skill, and ability to score and create goals at the highest level.
Conclusion
Maika Hamano’s rapid rise from Japanese youth football to starring for Chelsea and Japan highlights her immense talent and determination. With her skill set and mentality, she is poised to be a leading figure in women’s football for years to come.
