- Nationality
Canada- Most Recent Club
- Celtic FC
- Former Clubs
- South Georgia Tormenta FC
- National Team Appearances
- Japan U-19, U-17,U-16
- Post-Secondary Teams
- University of Memphis Tigers
- Birthplace
- Chiba, Japan
Momo Nakao was born in Chiba, Japan in 2002 and rose through the JEF United Chiba academy system, playing from U-13 through U-18 before breaking into the senior side. By 2018, her talent was recognized on the global stage when she represented Japan at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Uruguay, an experience that cemented her ambition to pursue the game at the highest level.
In 2021, Momo crossed continents to study and play at the University of Memphis. Over four seasons, she became the heartbeat of the Tigers’ midfield. Her impact was reflected in accolades: AAC Midfielder of the Year (2023), All-AAC First Team (2023, 2024), and recognition on the United Soccer Coaches All-Region First Team. Off the field, she was also honored as a Scholar All-American, balancing athletic excellence with academic dedication.
During summer play, Momo featured with Calgary Foothills WFC in the UWS and later joined South Georgia Tormenta FC in the USL W League in 2024. There, she stood out as one of only two players with FIFA U-17 World Cup experience, sharpening her competitive edge before making the leap to professional football.
That leap came in January 2025, when she signed for Celtic FC Women in the Scottish Women’s Premier League. For Momo, the move carried deep personal significance: “I had the honor of making my pro debut in the green and white uniform of Celtic FC which I have dreamed of since I was a child.”
Almost immediately, Momo’s composure and technical quality in midfield earned her a spot in the SWPL Team of the Week, with back-to-back scoring performances in early 2025.
From her early days in Chiba to her development in NCAA soccer and her breakthrough in Glasgow, Momo Nakao has carried a reputation as a playmaker with vision and resilience. Her journey reflects both the globalization of women’s football and the personal determination required to thrive in different systems, cultures, and leagues.