Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Rebecca Knaak on a deal through to the end of the 2025/26 season, with the German defender joining the club following a triumphant season with FC Rosengård.
The 28-year-old becomes the club’s first signing of the January transfer window, subject to international clearance and a work visa.
Knaak, who has not yet featured for Germany’s senior national team, has spent the last three seasons with FC Rosengård in the Damallsvenskan and has enjoyed success with the Swedish club. A domestic double in her first season was followed up with another league title in 2024.
She was named as the league’s Defender of the Year as Rosengård lost just once in the league, and contributed heavily in attack too – her 12 league goals saw her finish the season as the league’s sixth-highest goalscorer.
On her move to Manchester City, Knaak said: “Especially after this season with Rosengård, it was the perfect timing because I feel like I’m at the stage of my career now where I really want to take the next step.”
“It feels like in this environment at this club, with the highest ambition, it’s the perfect step for me to develop and to become a better player and also as a person. I felt I was ready for the next step and I can’t wait.”
“I think the WSL is the best league in the world right now,” she added.
Now the Director of Football at Manchester City Women, Therese Sjögran formerly carried out the role at FC Rosengård, and Knaak revealed that “it was really helpful for me that I already knew Therese. I really trust her and her abilities, so it gives me a good feeling.”
Sjögran added: “Rebecca played some of the best football of her career to date last season – culminating in her being named the Damallsvenskan defender of the year – and I’m pleased to bring such a seasoned professional to the club.”
“She gives her all on and off the pitch, which will help us challenge for trophies. I’m looking forward to seeing Rebecca make her mark.”