Both are firmly established stars for their home nation, featuring in each of their last two World Cup squads having come through the ranks together at Tokyo Verdy Beleza.
They’ve lined up on opposite sides for the past two seasons, however, with Shimizu enjoying a successful two-year stint at fellow Barclays Women’s Super League side West Ham United before her move to the Joie Stadium.
And the defender is pleased to call Hasegawa her team-mate once again as she hopes to emulate our midfielder’s excellent start to life at the Club.
She said: “I’ve played for quite a long time with Yui, I’m really looking forward to it.
“Just like Yui, I want to become a crucial part of this team and win. She told me that it’s an incredible club and team.
“When I played against City [for West Ham] it felt like we were always defending and that they had the majority of the possession. It was a tough game.
“It’s a new experience playing with these players, but one I’m excited for. I want to be at the same level as them or even higher.”
“I know City is a top team and I’m here to give my best at every opportunity. I want to prove myself to the team.”
Shimizu also revealed how impressed she’d been by the facilities on offer to the squad at the City Football Academy.
With a new purpose-built facility on the way, the team’s future off the pitch is just as exciting as on it.
And the Japan international believes the CFA will help her hit new heights at the Joie Stadium.
“I was surprised at first, just looking around at the amazing facilities, but I’m excited to become the part of the team so I can train and play football here,” she added.
“It was the sheer size of the facility, that everything is here, all in one place.”
“I think it’s really helpful when you’re trying to stay fit and conditioned that everything is in one place, everything you need to train and play is right here.”
