West Ham United is delighted to announce the signing of Japan international Yu Endo.
The 27-year-old, who will wear the No2 shirt, has penned a two-year contract at the Club following her departure from WE League side Urawa Reds.
Endo spent 15 years at her former club, making 171 appearances and winning a plethora of silverware, including back-to-back league and AFC Women's Champions League titles in 2023 and 2024.
The full-back, who has represented her country twice, was ever-present for Urawa Reds over the past two seasons and is determined to bring her consistency and winning mentality to east London.
“I’m really happy to join West Ham United,” she said.
“I spent a long time at Urawa Reds, and we enjoyed a lot of success together. I think that winning comes from an individual’s mentality, and I want to contribute to the team by bringing that winning attitude to West Ham.
“My strengths are supporting the attack from the back and my one-on-one defending. I take care of myself on a daily basis, and I work hard in training - I pride myself on always being available for the team.
“It’s been nice to see so many Japanese players doing well in the WSL (Barclays Women's Super League) over the last few years. Now, I want to represent Japan in England.
“I know that there is a strong history of Japanese players who have represented this famous badge. I’m honoured to join that list, and I’m really looking forward to bringing my best and challenging myself at this Club.”
Endo becomes the Hammers’ fifth Japan international, following in the footsteps of current No9 Riko Ueki, and manager Rehanne Skinner is pleased to be able to bolster her defensive options.
“I’m delighted to welcome Yu to West Ham United,” she said. “Yu is an intelligent, technical, ball-playing full-back with a fantastic work ethic.
“I was keen to add to our defensive line to complement our existing squad depth this summer, and I’m sure Yu will provide us with a different option in that area of the pitch.
“We’re proud of the blend of nationalities we have in the building and the diverse culture that we have created here. Having spent a long time with her previous club in Japan, I’m sure Yu’s experience will give her a solid foundation to excel in east London and playing in the best league in the world.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to welcome Yu to the Club and wish her every success in Claret and Blue.
