Risa Shimzu signs for Manchester City

Former West Ham defender Risa Shimizu has joined Manchester City on a three-year contract.

Penning a deal until 2027, the Japan international becomes Manchester City’s second signing of the summer transfer window following Vivianne Miedema’s move to the Sky Blues.

Shimizu, 28, joined the Women’s Super League in 2022, making 44 appearances for West Ham and scoring one goal.

On her move, she said: “First of all, it’ll be a challenge, but one I’m ready for.

“City play football with a high possession style, which I like. I think I’m technically good and calm with the ball in possession, so I think I’ll play well in City’s style.

“I can’t wait to get started and hopefully lift the trophy with my new teammates.”

Last season, City finished second in the WSL to Emma Hayes’ Chelsea, but the Cityzens will certainly be hoping they can go one step further in the upcoming 2024/25 campaign.

Head Coach Gareth Taylor said: “Risa brings intelligence and technical quality to the team. She’s an established international with huge WSL experience and we are delighted to bring her to our club.”

Shimizu will link up with her country at the 2024 Paris Olympics before joining up with City for the first-ever Perth International Football Cup next month in preparation for the 2024-25 season.


Featured image courtesy of Manchester City FC.

By Emilie Mwanza

Founder of Beyond The 90. Trainee multimedia journalist based in Preston.