Japanese football icon Saki Kumagai has delivered a powerful message of intent, declaring that London City Lionesses are fully prepared to make their mark on the Barclays Women's Championship this season.
The former Arsenal and Bayern Munich superstar, who joined the London club in July, brings unparalleled experience to the squad following her historic UEFA Women's Champions League final winning goal in 2013.
From World Stage to London's Pride
Kumagai's arrival represents a monumental coup for the London-based club. Having captained the Japanese national team to World Cup glory and accumulated numerous domestic titles across Europe, her presence instantly elevates the team's profile and expectations.
"We are ready for the big time," Kumagai stated with conviction. "The atmosphere within this squad is exceptional, and we've built something special during pre-season. Every player understands their role and responsibilities."
Building Towards Success
The Lionesses have undergone significant transformation under manager Carolina Morace, who took charge in November. Kumagai praised the Italian's impact, highlighting the improved tactical understanding and team cohesion.
Key factors driving the team's confidence include:
- Enhanced squad depth with strategic summer signings
- Improved defensive organisation and structure
- Strong team chemistry and shared ambition
- World-class experience from Kumagai's leadership
A New Era for Women's Championship
Kumagai's presence signals a shifting landscape in the Women's Championship, where experienced international stars are increasingly seeing the competitive value and growth potential of the league.
The Japanese midfielder emphasized that the team's preparation has been comprehensive, addressing both physical conditioning and mental resilience. "We've worked on every aspect of our game," she noted. "The players have shown incredible commitment to our collective goals."
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on London City Lionesses to see if they can translate their pre-season confidence into results on the pitch, potentially challenging for promotion to the Women's Super League.
