Risa Shimizu stands as one of the most decorated and durable right-backs in the modern game, a player whose career has been defined by clinical technical skill and a near-limitless physical engine. A product of Japan’s most prestigious development system, Shimizu spent nearly a decade as the heartbeat of a dominant Tokyo Verdy Beleza side before taking her talents to England’s Women’s Super League. Though a significant injury in 2024 momentarily paused her high-profile move to Manchester City, her current stint at Liverpool serves as a powerful testament to her resilience. She remains a vital component of the Nadeshiko national team, blending the instincts of a former striker with the tactical discipline of an elite defender.
At a Glance
- Full Name: Risa Shimizu (清水 梨紗)
- Date of Birth: June 15, 1996
- Place of Birth: Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
- Position: Right-Back / Right Wing-Back
- Current Club: Liverpool (on loan from Manchester City)
- National Team: Japan (Nadeshiko)
The Story So Far
Born in Kobe and inspired by her older sisters, Risa Shimizu’s footballing journey began at age seven. Her talent was evident early on, leading her to the prestigious Nippon TV Menina academy at just 12 years old. This move would set the stage for a period of unprecedented domestic dominance. Upon her promotion to the senior team, Tokyo Verdy Beleza, at age 17, she became a cornerstone of a dynasty that secured 14 major trophies, including five consecutive league titles. By the time she was named club captain in 2020, she had nothing left to prove in Japan, having completed the domestic ladder entirely.
In 2022, seeking professional growth over guaranteed silverware, Shimizu transitioned to the English WSL with West Ham United. She adapted instantly to the physical rigors of the league, starting nearly every possible match and proving that her durability was world-class. Her success in East London earned her a dream transfer to Manchester City in July 2024, a move that promised a professional reunion with long-time teammate and friend Yui Hasegawa.
However, the narrative took a brutal turn just weeks later. While representing Japan at the 2024 Olympics, Shimizu suffered a catastrophic ACL rupture. The injury sidelined her for the entire 2024–25 season, delaying her debut for Manchester City and challenging the physical reliability that had been the hallmark of her career. Now, in the 2025–26 season, she is on a high-stakes loan at Liverpool. This period is more than just a comeback; it is a season-long audition to prove she has returned to the zenith of her powers.
Style of Play & Tactical Analysis
Shimizu is the quintessential modern fullback: a tireless runner who provides as much value in the final third as she does in her own penalty area. Her tactical profile is built on four core pillars:
- Elite Stamina: Before football became her primary focus, Shimizu was an accomplished long-distance runner. This physiological foundation allows her to maintain high-intensity overlapping runs for a full 90 minutes, effectively serving as both a defender and a primary source of attacking width.
- The Converted Attacker: Unusually for an elite defender, Shimizu began her youth career as a prolific striker. This history provides her with a unique advantage; she understands the movements and thought processes of the forwards she marks. It also explains her composure in attacking scenarios, where she is known for pinpoint crossing and intelligent positioning.
- Technical Calmness: In keeping with the Japanese school of football, Shimizu is exceptionally comfortable in possession. She excels in high-possession systems where she can play out from the back, making her an ideal fit for both the Nadeshiko and top-tier WSL sides.
- Defensive Resilience: While she loves to join the attack, she does not neglect her defensive duties. Her time at West Ham, often playing against the league’s most potent attacks while fighting for league position, honed her into a combative and dependable defender who rarely loses her tactical discipline.
Future Outlook
The current campaign at Liverpool is the most critical juncture of Risa Shimizu’s career. Having successfully returned to full match fitness and already completing 90-minute shifts in the WSL, the early signs are incredibly positive. Her immediate goal is to reclaim her status as the premier right-back in England while proving to her parent club, Manchester City, that her ACL injury has not diminished her trademark speed or stamina. If she continues her current trajectory, she will not only be a starter for City in 2026 but will remain the indispensable engine of the Japan national team as they look toward future major tournaments.
The Trophy Case (Honours)
| Team / Organization | Competition / Award | Honor | Year(s) |
| Tokyo Verdy Beleza | Nadeshiko League | Champions | 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 |
| Tokyo Verdy Beleza | Empress’s Cup | Champions | 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 |
| Tokyo Verdy Beleza | AFC Women’s Club Championship | Champions | 2019 |
| Japan National Team | AFC Women’s Asian Cup | Gold Medal | 2018 |
| Japan National Team | Asian Games | Gold Medal | 2018 |
| Japan National Team | EAFF Women’s Championship | Champions | 2019, 2022 |
| Individual | EAFF Championship MVP | Winner | 2022 |
| Individual | Nadeshiko League Best XI | Winner | 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 |
| Individual | WE League Best XI | Winner | 2021–22 |
The Record (Career Statistics)
| Season | Club | League | Appearances | Goals |
| 2013–2022 | Tokyo Verdy Beleza | Nadeshiko / WE League | 165 | 4 |
| 2022–2024 | West Ham United | WSL | 44 | 1 |
| 2024–2025 | Manchester City | WSL | 0 | 0 |
