NWSL: Denver Summit FC Inks Japanese International Star Yuzuki Yamamoto

Staff Writer
2 days ago
2 min read

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DENVER, Colo. — Denver Summit FC has made a major splash on the international transfer market, announcing the signing of 23-year-old Japanese forward Yuzuki Yamamoto. Widely regarded as one of Asia's most clinical emerging attackers, Yamamoto joins the NWSL expansion side on a two-year contract through 2027, with a mutual option for 2028.

Yamamoto arrives in the Mile High City from the reigning WE League champions, Tokyo Verdy Beleza, where she recently capped a stellar campaign by being named League MVP. During the 2025 season, she tallied eight goals in 22 appearances, leading Beleza to their first league title of the professional era.

"Yuzuki has a tremendous upside in her ability to play on both sides of the ball, and we are thrilled to welcome her to Denver," said Curt Johnson, General Manager of Denver Summit FC. "Her versatility, work ethic, and instincts on both the attacking and defensive side align perfectly with how we want to play."

A Proven International Pedigree

Yamamoto’s rise has been marked by success at every level of the Japanese national team pathway. A standout for "Nadeshiko Japan," she was a key figure in the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, recording three goals and three assists to help Japan reach the final.

She made her senior international debut in 2025 and is currently representing Japan in the Asian Cup. Yamamoto has been in scintillating form during the tournament, notably recording a goal and two assists in a dominant 11-0 group-stage win over India. She is slated to compete in the Asian Cup Final this Saturday, March 21, before traveling to Colorado to join her new teammates.

"I'm honored and excited to join Denver Summit FC," Yamamoto said through an interpreter. "This club has a clear vision and strong ambition... I want to challenge myself in a new league, continue to grow as a player, and help the team compete at the highest level."

Tactical Impact for the Summit

The signing of Yamamoto provides Denver with a dynamic offensive weapon capable of playing across the front line. Known for her technical composure and ability to contribute to the defensive press, she fits the high-intensity tactical identity General Manager Curt Johnson and the Summit technical staff are building for their inaugural NWSL season.

Yamamoto’s arrival is expected to bolster a Denver attack that already features top draft pick Jasmine Aikey. Her experience winning professional titles in Japan brings a "winner's mentality" to a locker room looking to make an immediate impact in the league standings.

Yuzuki Yamamoto Profile:

Age: 23
Previous Club: Tokyo Verdy Beleza (Japan)
Honors: 2025 WE League MVP, WE League Champion
International Experience: FIFA U-17 & U-20 World Cups, Senior Japan National Team

Yamamoto will officially join the Summit roster following the conclusion of her international duties this weekend. The club is expected to announce her jersey number and potential debut date early next week.