Yui Hasegawa: "Asia still lags behind Europe"

• The Japan and Manchester City midfielder talks about her role on FIFPRO’s Global Player Council, where footballers discuss issues affecting their careers
• One of 37 players on the council, Hasegawa represents the voices and experiences of Japanese and Asian players at a time when more than ever are playing abroad
• Hasegawa looks ahead to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup and hopes the 2026 edition can spark change in the continent 

Japan international Yui Hasegawa believes players must have a seat at the table if women’s football is to continue its rapid growth, particularly in Asia.

A member of FIFPRO’s Global Player Council, the Manchester City midfielder sees her role as an opportunity to represent the voices and experiences of Japanese and Asian footballers at a time when more players than ever are moving to Europe.

"With the increasing opportunities for Japanese and Asian players to compete in Europe, I joined hoping to contribute from that perspective towards the development of women’s football and improving conditions," she said.

While welcoming the global growth of the women’s game, Hasegawa is clear that significant gaps remain. "Asia still lags behind Europe," she explained. "The drive for football's development and investment levels are still far lower, so I hope to contribute in those areas too."

Women’s Asian Cup

Those disparities are particularly evident around major tournaments. Hasegawa pointed to the significance of Australia hosting the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, which kicks off on 1 March 2026, highlighting its unique position within the region. "Amidst dramatic improvements in women’s football environments worldwide, the fact that this tournament is being held in Australia – currently the only place in Asia where men and women receive equal pay – presents a huge opportunity," she said.

For Hasegawa, the hope is that progress in one part of the region can spark change elsewhere. "I hope this opportunity will lead to improvements for the Women's Asian Cup too, such as improving conditions and matching the men's prize money."

Central to achieving those improvements is collective player action. "To create a better environment, I believe players' actions are essential," Hasegawa said. "Yet, for individual players to act alone is undoubtedly challenging."

Hasegawa sees player associations as vital in amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard, especially as the international calendar continues to expand. "That’s why I consider the players' association to play a crucial role," she said. "With the increasing number of international matches, it becomes easier to reflect players' opinions. The collective voice of the players' association is, I believe, extremely important."

Hasegawa is one of 37 footballers with international experience on FIFPRO’s Global Player Council, which advocates for better working conditions for players worldwide. Council members remain closely connected to their domestic player unions, ensuring global discussions are grounded in national realities and player representation.