Liverpool sign Japan U20 star Mao Itamura from Feyenoord
Short overview
Liverpool have signed attacking midfielder Mao Itamura from Feyenoord. The 19-year-old Japan U20 international was named Women's Eredivisie player of the season in 2025-26 and replaces Denise O'Sullivan, who joined Gotham FC on loan.
Liverpool have completed the signing of attacking midfielder Mao Itamura from Feyenoord, the club announced. The 19-year-old Japan youth international becomes the fifth addition to Gareth Taylor's squad this summer and is set to replace Republic of Ireland international Denise O'Sullivan, who joined Gotham FC on an initial loan deal.
Rising star in the Netherlands
Itamura was named the Women's Eredivisie player of the season for the 2025-26 campaign after an outstanding campaign with Feyenoord. She scored eight goals and provided six assists in the league, playing a key role in helping the club qualify for European competition for the first time in their history.
International pedigree
The midfielder was also part of the Japan Under-20s squad that won the Women's Asian Cup in April 2026, further underlining her potential on the international stage.
Career path
Itamura began her professional career in Japan with JFA Academy Fukushima before moving to Europe to join Feyenoord in January 2025. She will wear the number 26 shirt at Liverpool.
Player's reaction
"It's a league and a club that was one of my goals [to join]. I'm happy to be here," said Itamura. "When I started playing soccer, one of my goals was to become a professional footballer. When I reached that goal, I wanted to play for my favourite team. I'm really happy to have the opportunity to play in Liverpool, which is a big club."
Summer recruitment
Itamura follows the arrivals of Vivien Endemann, Sara Agrez, Mari Ward and Khiara Keating at Liverpool as the club strengthens its squad ahead of the new Women's Super League season.
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