Celtic FC Women are thrilled to announce the signing of Japanese midfielder Momo Nakao, pending international clearance.
The 22-year-old, hailing from Inzai City, Chiba, Japan, brings a wealth of experience and skill to Elena Sadiku’s squad.
Nakao began her football journey in the youth ranks of JEF United Chiba Women’s academy, where she clinched the U18 National Championship and earned promotion to the senior team before relocating to the United States to pursue her collegiate career.
She has also been an integral part of Japan’s youth national team setup, representing her country at the U16, U17, and U19 levels. Nakao showcased her talent on the global stage during the U17 World Cup in Uruguay in 2018.
In 2021, Nakao moved to the United States to join the University of Memphis, where she quickly established herself as one of the standout midfielders in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Over four seasons, she started all 79 matches, amassing an impressive record of 15 goals and 15 assists.
Reacting to the deadline day signing, Celtic FC Women’s Head Coach, Elena Sadiku, said: “I’m really excited to see Momo in our environment.
‘She has great experience from Japan’s youth national team and being captain for her college team.’
“The fans can expect a player that gives everything for her team-mates and the club. She’s very professional and very talented. She has a great game vision and is very technical.”
