Angel City FC has officially signed Japanese footballer Miyabi Moriya, a talented defender with international experience. Moriya, who has played 15 matches for the Japan women’s national team, joins the American club from INAC Kobe Leonessa, a well-known team in the Japanese WE League. The signing was confirmed on January 31, 2025. She has agreed to a one-year contract, and the transfer was completed for an undisclosed fee.
A Rising Star in Japanese Football
Miyabi Moriya was born in Nara Prefecture, Japan, and developed her skills at an early age. She joined INAC Kobe Leonessa, one of Japan’s strongest women’s football teams, and played for them for several years. During her time with the club, she participated in 118 matches and scored eight goals. While defenders do not usually score many goals, Moriya showed that she could contribute both defensively and offensively.
Her strong performances did not go unnoticed. In 2023, she was awarded the WE League Valuable Player title, a prestigious honor given to the best player in the league. This award highlighted her exceptional abilities, leadership, and dedication to the sport.
Why Angel City FC Signed Moriya
Angel City FC, based in Los Angeles, California, is always looking for talented players to strengthen their team. The club competes in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the top women’s football league in the United States. By signing Moriya, they are adding a skilled and experienced defender who can help improve their defense.
Moriya’s experience with the Japanese national team also makes her a valuable player. She has played in important international tournaments, including the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Japan competed against strong teams like Brazil. Her experience at such a high level of football will benefit Angel City FC.
Moriya’s Playing Style and Strengths
Miyabi Moriya is known for her strong defensive skills, quick decision-making, and excellent passing ability. She is a versatile defender, meaning she can play in different defensive positions depending on the team’s needs. Her ability to read the game and intercept passes makes her a strong asset in defense.
In addition to her defensive skills, Moriya is also comfortable with the ball at her feet. She can start attacks from the back, making her a modern defender who contributes to both defense and offense. Her leadership on the field and her ability to stay calm under pressure make her a reliable player.
Japan’s Growing Influence in Women’s Football
Japan has a strong tradition in women’s football. The Japanese national team, known as Nadeshiko Japan, won the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2011 and has consistently performed well in international tournaments. Japanese players are known for their technical skills, discipline, and teamwork, which make them valuable additions to clubs around the world.
Many Japanese players have moved to foreign leagues in recent years, helping to spread Japan’s football style globally. Moriya is now part of this trend, and her move to Angel City FC will allow her to gain new experiences and face different challenges.
Challenges and Opportunities for Moriya in the NWSL
Playing in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) will be a new challenge for Moriya. The league is known for its physical style of play, fast-paced matches, and competitive teams. She will need to adapt to a different style of football, but her experience and skills should help her adjust quickly.
One of the biggest challenges will be facing strong attackers from different countries. The NWSL has many talented forwards who are fast, strong, and technically gifted. Moriya will need to use her defensive intelligence and positioning to stop them.
However, this move also brings many opportunities. Moriya will have the chance to learn from new coaches, play alongside talented teammates, and compete against some of the best players in the world. If she performs well, she could become a key player for Angel City FC and earn more opportunities with the Japanese national team.
What This Signing Means for Angel City FC
Angel City FC has been building a strong team, and the signing of Moriya shows their commitment to bringing in top talent from around the world. As a Japanese international player, Moriya adds a new dimension to the team’s defense. Her experience, skills, and leadership qualities will help the team compete at a higher level.
In addition, signing international players like Moriya can help grow the popularity of the club in Asia, especially in Japan. Fans in Japan will likely follow her journey in the NWSL, increasing global interest in the team.
Looking Ahead: Moriya’s Future in the NWSL
Miyabi Moriya’s move to Angel City FC is an exciting step in her career. She has already proven herself in Japan’s top league, and now she has the opportunity to test her skills in one of the most competitive women’s football leagues in the world.
If she adapts well to the new environment and continues to perform at a high level, she could extend her contract beyond one year and become an important player for the club. Additionally, her performances in the NWSL could help her secure a regular spot in the Japanese national team, especially as they prepare for future tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympics.
