Hasegawa Continues Historic Run with Fourth Consecutive Honor
The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) announced the 2025-26 Women's Team of the Year on the 25th, highlighting the elite performers who shaped the season. Among the honorees are two standout Japanese internationals, underscoring the growing influence of Japanese players in the Women's Super League (WSL). Manchester City midfielder Yui Hasegawa has been named to the team for the fourth consecutive season, a remarkable feat that has solidified her status as one of the league's preeminent playmakers.
During the previous campaign, Hasegawa featured in 29 official matches, contributing four goals and four assists. Her influence, however, extends far beyond these raw statistics. As the heartbeat of the midfield, she provided the tactical balance necessary for Manchester City to secure a double, winning both the league title and the FA Women’s Cup for the first time in a decade. Her technical proficiency allows her to neutralize opposing pressing lines with intelligent positioning, while her vision for vertical passing remains unmatched in the league. As a core asset under manager Gareth Taylor, Hasegawa’s ability to maintain top-tier performance levels across four grueling seasons has become the foundation of City’s tactical philosophy. Her consistency remains an indispensable asset, serving as a beacon of excellence that few in the league can emulate.
Toko Koga Earns Maiden Inclusion After Breakout Year
While Hasegawa’s success is a testament to long-term consistency, Tottenham defender Toko Koga has enjoyed a breakout season, earning her first-ever inclusion in the PFA Team of the Year. Since moving to England, Koga has rapidly adapted to the physical demands of the WSL, showcasing a composure that belies her youth. Her development under manager Roberto De Zerbi has been central to this transformation; where the Tottenham backline once struggled with stability, Koga’s presence has provided a necessary sense of order and authority.
Koga’s ability to neutralize threats in one-on-one duels has redefined her role at the club. Beyond her defensive duties, her role in facilitating ball progression from the back has significantly enhanced the fluidity of Tottenham’s transitions. This accolade serves as public recognition of her progress and signifies her rise to the upper echelons of the league's defensive hierarchy. Her tactical discipline and quick decision-making under pressure have proven to be the missing pieces that have stabilized the Tottenham defense, earning her the respect of her peers across the WSL and proving that she is no longer just a prospect, but a cornerstone of the squad.
A Shared Legacy in the WSL
The inclusion of both Hasegawa and Koga in the Team of the Year highlights the significant footprint Japanese players are leaving on the English game. Whether through Hasegawa’s orchestrating role at City or Koga’s defensive duties at Tottenham, both players have demonstrated that they are not merely participating in the league, but actively shaping its competitive landscape.
Performing at such a high level in the grueling English schedule is a formidable task, requiring immense physical and mental resilience. For both players, this recognition is more than just a trophy; it is a validation of the hard work they have invested in navigating the intense pressure of the English circuit. As they look ahead to the next campaign, these accolades serve as a new benchmark for their careers. With the league’s intensity only growing, the ability of these two players to command their respective sectors on the pitch will remain a focal point for fans and analysts alike. Their continued evolution will not only redefine their personal careers but will also serve as a vital indicator of how Japanese players are helping to redefine the tactical standards of the WSL.
