Hayashi's Professional Football Journey: From Japan to the WSL
The professional trajectory of Hayashi is a testament to growth and versatility, spanning three different countries and some of the most competitive leagues in women's football. From her early days in Japan to her current impact in the English Women's Super League (WSL), Hayashi has consistently demonstrated leadership and clinical finishing on the pitch.
Key Facts
- Career Start: Began with Cerezo Osaka Sakai in 2013.
- Leadership: Served as club captain for Cerezo Osaka Sakai in 2017.
- European Transition: Played in Sweden's Damallsvenskan with AIK Fotboll.
- English Experience: Competed in the WSL with West Ham United and Everton.
- Historic Achievement: Scored the goal that ended Chelsea's record 34-match unbeaten streak.
Early Career and Success at Cerezo Osaka Sakai
Hayashi's professional journey began in 2013 with Cerezo Osaka Sakai. She joined the club as they entered the Challenge League, which serves as the second division of Japanese women's football. Her influence grew within the squad, leading to her appointment as club captain in 2017.
Under her leadership, the club achieved significant milestones, including winning the Division 2 Nadeshiko League Cup and securing promotion to the Nadeshiko League Division 1 by the conclusion of the 2017 season.
European Venture with AIK Fotboll
On December 16, 2020, Hayashi expanded her horizons by signing with AIK Fotboll in the Swedish Damallsvenskan. After debuting in the Stockholm Volkswagen Challenge pre-season tournament, she made her official league debut against Växjö on April 17, 2021.
Her time in Sweden was marked by several standout performances. On May 2, 2021, she scored twice against Djurgårdens IF, including a penalty. She further impressed on June 5, 2021, with a free-kick goal against KIF Örebro that earned her a nomination for goal of the year by Sportbladet. Hayashi concluded her tenure at AIK Fotboll with 7 goals in 36 appearances.
Transition to the Women's Super League
Hayashi moved to England on September 8, 2022, signing a two-year contract with West Ham United for an undisclosed fee. She debuted against Everton on September 18, 2022, and recorded her first goal for the club during a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on October 15, 2022. She remained with West Ham until her contract expired on June 30, 2024.
Shortly after leaving West Ham, Hayashi signed with Everton on July 24, 2024. Her impact was immediate and historic; on December 7, 2025, she scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Chelsea, ending the opponent's 34-match unbeaten streak—the longest in Super League history. Following these contributions, she signed a contract extension on February 6, 2026, for one and a half years, with an option for an additional year.
Career Summary Table
| Club | League/Country | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Cerezo Osaka Sakai | Japan (Nadeshiko League) | Captain; Promotion to Division 1 |
| AIK Fotboll | Sweden (Damallsvenskan) | 7 goals in 36 appearances |
| West Ham United | England (WSL) | First goal vs Aston Villa |
| Everton | England (WSL) | Ended Chelsea's 34-match unbeaten run |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Hayashi start her professional career?
Hayashi began her professional career in 2013 with Cerezo Osaka Sakai in Japan.
Which goal earned Hayashi a nomination for goal of the year in Sweden?
Her free-kick goal against KIF Örebro on June 5, 2021, led to her nomination for goal of the year by Sportbladet.
How many goals did Hayashi score during her time at AIK Fotboll?
Hayashi scored a total of 7 goals in 36 appearances for AIK Fotboll.
What historic record did Hayashi help break while playing for Everton?
She scored the goal that ended Chelsea's 34-match unbeaten streak, which was the longest unbeaten run in Super League history.
What are the terms of Hayashi's most recent contract extension?
On February 6, 2026, she signed a one-and-a-half-year extension with Everton, which includes a club option for one further year.