Manaka Matsukubo Bio
Manaka Matsukubo (松窪 真心, Matsukubo Manaka; born 28 July 2004) is a Japanese professional footballer who plays as a forward or attacking midfielder for the North Carolina Courage of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the Japan national team. Manaka represented Japan at the 2022 and 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cups, reaching the final at both events and earning the Silver Ball at the latter, before making her senior debut in 2025.
Early Life and Background
Manaka Matsukubo was born in Kagoshima, Kagoshima, Japan. Growing up in a country passionate about soccer, she was exposed to the sport from a young age, which helped shape her future career. Details about her family background and early influences in soccer are not widely documented, but her commitment to the sport became evident during her youth.
Path to Soccer
Manaka began her soccer journey at the JFA Academy Fukushima, where she honed her skills from 2017 to 2022. During her time there, she developed into a promising player, showcasing her talent in various competitions. Her early achievements included representing Japan at the under-16 level, which paved the way for her future in professional soccer.
Manaka Matsukubo Career
Early Career (2019–2022)
Manaka Matsukubo made her professional debut for Mynavi Sendai in the WE League on 5 March 2023. In her first season, she played 1,075 minutes, scored four goals, and provided one assist, contributing to her team’s fourth-place finish. Her performance established her as a player to watch in the league.
Breakthrough (2023)
On 27 July 2023, Manaka Matsukubo joined the North Carolina Courage on loan from Mynavi Sendai. She made her NWSL debut on 27 August 2023, starting in a match against the Chicago Red Stars. Her breakthrough moment came during the 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup, where she became the youngest player to start a game in the tournament. She scored in the final against Racing Louisville, leading her team to victory and earning the title of MVP for her performance.
Notable Works and Milestones
Manaka Matsukubo’s signature work includes her contributions to the North Carolina Courage, where she quickly became a key player. She finished the 2025 season with 11 goals, ranking third in the NWSL, and received accolades such as NWSL Midfielder of the Year and a spot on the NWSL Best XI First Team.
Manaka Matsukubo Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Manaka Matsukubo has received several nominations for her outstanding performances, particularly during her time in the NWSL, where she has been recognized for her contributions to her team’s success.
Manaka Matsukubo Awards Won
Manaka Matsukubo has achieved notable recognition in her young career, including being named NWSL Midfielder of the Year and earning a place on the NWSL Best XI First Team at the end of the 2025 season.
Manaka Matsukubo Family
Information regarding Manaka Matsukubo’s family is not publicly available, as she has maintained a level of privacy concerning her personal life.
Personal Life
Details about Manaka Matsukubo’s personal life, including relationships or children, are not documented in public sources. Her focus remains on her soccer career and contributions to her teams.