The Japanese international joined the Club in September 2022 from fellow Barclays Women’s Super League side West Ham United.
A goal on her debut, in which she was also named player of the match, a few weeks later set the tone for what has been a phenomenal maiden campaign for the midfielder.
But it’s her quality in possession, positional awareness and tenacity off the ball which have been the hallmarks of her standout season to date.
And speaking on last weekend’s Matchday Live broadcast, Christiansen outlined how Yui has not only formed ‘unbelievable’ partnerships with her team-mates, but has also help the boss adapt our playing style.
The former City midfielder said: “Keira [Walsh] could take a touch out of her feet and find a winger on the touchline, but the way that Gareth Taylor has his team playing is with a lot more short passes more centrally.
“[It’s] Like we see with the men’s team, one full-back comes infield to double up with Hasegawa as a double six and they manipulate the ball.
“The relationship between Hasegawa and Alex Greenwood is unbelievable. The connection there, giving each other the ball without even looking, they just know where they are.
“They’ve been key to how City have progressed this season and got themselves back into a title race.”
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Hasegawa arrived at the Academy Stadium on the back of a successful first season in English football at West Ham, in which she twice won the WSL Goal of the Month award.
Christiansen – who currently plies her trade for Everton - was ruled out of our previous league fixture in November 2022, but faced the Japanese international - playing in a more advanced role - during her time at the Hammers.
The midfielder admits that getting the better of our number 25 was easier said than done.
“She’s been frightening,” the former City midfielder added when talking about Hasegawa’s personal form.
“I was injured when we played City this season, but last year she when she was at West Ham and was outstanding.
“I can see why City signed her. To come in and play the six role the way she has is unbelievable.”
