Chicago Stars FC today announced that the club has transferred midfielder Manaka Hayashi to Juventus in Italy’s Serie A for an agreed-upon fee.
"Mana is an incredibly dedicated and talented player, and we believe this move will be beneficial for her as she continues her development,” said Chicago Stars FC President Karen Leetzow. “We’re grateful for her contributions to our club and we wish her the best in this new chapter in Italy as she continues to gain valuable experience in a new environment.”
Hayashi signed with the Stars in January 2025 after playing her freshman season at Santa Clara University in 2024. Hayashi made her NWSL debut with Chicago during the 2025 season opener at Orlando Pride on March 14. The midfielder went on to make 7 starts in 17 appearances and played 653 minutes. On August 22, 2025, Hayashi recorded her first NWSL assist to Ludmila on her third goal of the match to tie the North Carolina Courage 3-3.
During the 2026 season, Hayashi has made 18 starts in 21 appearances for a total of 1,421 minutes. The midfielder has been a physical force for the Stars with a team high 26 tackles won and 22 fouls won.
Internationally, Hayashi has been a part of the Japan National Team ranks since she joined the U-13 Japan National select team in 2017. She officially made her international debut with the U-16 team, winning the AFC U-16 Women’s Championship in Thailand. Hayashi went on to represent Japan as team captain in the 2024 U-20 FIFA World Cup where Japan finished as the runner-up.
“I'm very grateful to Chicago for welcoming me when I got here,” said Hayashi. “It was my dream to play professionally in the U.S. since I started playing soccer and I have been so honored to be part of this team. I’m proud of my teammates, all the staff, and fans who showed up no matter what. Thank you, Chicago.”
The Chicago Stars will return to action at home on Sunday, September 20 to face the Washington Spirit for the club’s Neighborhood Night match presented by Sloan. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. CT at Martin Stadium in Evanston, IL. Tickets for all Chicago Stars home matches are available at chicagostars.com/tickets.
