2023, SEPTEMBER 01 – Mana Iwabuchi, a legend of Japanese women’s football and a FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, announced her retirement from the sport via a social media post today.
She made her full international debut for Japan in 2010, amassing over 85 appearances and scoring 37 goals during her illustrious career.
In her heartfelt message to her supporters, Iwabuchi expressed her deep gratitude for the experiences, support, camaraderie, and memorable moments she encountered throughout her football journey. She expressed her profound love for the game, the people she met through it, and her entire football career.
Iwabuchi, known for her remarkable skills and versatility, competed in three consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments. Notably, she was part of the Japanese squad that clinched the World Cup title in 2011. She made a significant impact by coming off the bench during the final match in Germany when she was just 18 years old.
Iwabuchi’s achievements also include silver and gold medals at the 2018 Asian Games and the 2012 London Summer Olympics, respectively. Her professional career saw her play in England, representing three Women’s Super League clubs: Aston Villa WFC, Arsenal WFC and Tottenham Hotspur WFC, with Spurs being her final club before retiring from professional play.
