Angel City Lands Japanese Sensation Hina Sugita in Stunning Blockbuster Deal

Angel City completed a major deal on Tuesday, bringing in Japanese midfielder Hina Sugita from Portland Thorns in return for defender M.A. Vignola plus $600,000 in league transfer compensation. 

"I'm incredibly thankful for this chance to become part of Angel City," Sugita expressed. "The club radiates tremendous energy and dedication, and I'm thrilled to join this community. I can't wait to compete for this organization and am eager to meet the supporters at BMO Stadium."

This acquisition follows the club's recent addition of Nealy Martin from Gotham FC this month, strengthening a midfield unit that has contributed to the team's challenges this campaign as they compete for remaining NWSL playoff positions. Angel City presently holds 11th position with 24 points, trailing the playoff threshold by just five points.

"Hina represents a elite-level midfielder who has consistently ranked among the top performers in this highly competitive league," stated ACFC sporting director Mark Parsons. "She possesses dynamism and exceptional tactical awareness that we believe enhances our on-field performance while contributing significant experience to our locker room. We're delighted to welcome a championship-quality talent to Angel City."

Sugita became a Thorns player in 2022 and instantly contributed to the club's 2022 NWSL title victory. Recording 13 goals and 14 assists across three seasons, including 22 appearances and 18 starting roles in 2025 specifically, Sugita has remained integral to Portland's success. Sugita has also earned 51 international caps for Japan, featuring in two FIFA Women's World Cups and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. 

"Hina represents a player we've coveted for an extended period," noted ACFC manager Alex Straus. "We're confident she'll integrate seamlessly with our tactical approach as she delivers a distinct skill profile to our midfield. Having competed in this league since 2022 for a quality organization and serving as an impact player for them, we anticipate Hina thriving in our system."

Moving in the opposite direction is Vignola, who featured in 20 matches for Angel City this season. She arrived at the club in 2024 and recorded two goals plus four assists during her tenure. The Cincinnati product will offer additional defensive depth for Portland, who dropped to sixth place following their 3–0 defeat to Gotham FC in a competitive playoff battle.