Everton Sign Japan International Forward Momiki

Everton have completed the signing of Japan international forward Yuka Momiki following the expiry of her contract with fellow Women’s Super League side Leicester City. Momiki becomes manager Brian Sorensen’s fifth signing of the summer transfer window, after midfielder Rosa van Gool, forward Ornella Vignola and defenders Rion Ishikawa and Hikaru Kitagawa moved to Merseyside for the Women’s team’s inaugural season at Goodison Park. Momiki joins compatriots Honoka Hayashi, Ishikawa and Kitagawa, who have all played alongside the 29-year-old with the ‘Nadeshiko’. Now donning the royal blue of the Toffees, the skilful forward spoke of her eagerness to walk out at Goodison, and how the ambition of owners The Friedkin Group made it an easy decision to sign for Everton. “I am just so excited to be a player for Everton and also I am so excited to play at Goodison Park,” she told evertontv. “I went on the guided tour of Goodison Park and I heard all of the stories. It made me really proud knowing I will be a part of the Club’s history, so I can't wait. “Women's football is growing so much. In England, and also at Everton, there is a clear goal to grow our game as much as possible. That ambition, makes me even more excited and was a key reason for me coming here.” An integral player for Japan on the international stage, Momiki lifted the 2025 SheBelieves Cup alongside her three club compatriots. She also travelled to the 2019 World Cup and competed in the 2020 Olympic Games. Discussing the competitiveness of the WSL, Everton’s number 29 outlined how continuing to play in England will help her on the international stage. Momiki said “The WSL is the most competitive league in the world. I am so glad I can be playing in this league as much as possible and to be starting a new challenge with Everton. “Playing in England is one of the biggest dreams for any football player. Another one of my dreams was to represent my country. It makes me more competitive and professional. “Playing for the national team makes me feel so proud. It makes me want to improve myself every single day and I think Everton is going to be a place where I can improve every day, too. "From my time with Japan, I know Hono very well. We talked a lot about Everton and she said she loves the Club, the fans and everything else off the pitch, so that made my decision even easier.” Everton manager Sorensen revealed his long-standing interest in Momiki and what she can bring to his Blues side. “Yuka is a player we’ve been keen on for a while now,” he said. “She has shown her quality in this league with Leicester and will be a real asset to Everton. “As well as being a humble and respectful person off the field, she is a skilful player who is very technically gifted. Yuka can do magical things with the ball at her feet and she is a player who will excite fans. “I look forward to seeing her flair and skill as we embark on this historic chapter at Goodison Park.”