Portland Thorns trade Hina Sugita to Angel City FC for M.A. Vignola and $600,000 intraleague transfer funds

Today, the Portland Thorns have announced that they have traded midfielder Hina Sugita to Angel City FC for M.A. Vignola and $600,000 in intraleague transfer funds.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision to make,” said President and General Manager Jeff Agoos. “Hina is a special person and we don’t take these decisions lightly.  However, the opportunity to continue to pursue our long-term plans of putting a championship caliber team on the field and giving Hina the opportunity to continue her growth as a player were factors in our decision making. We will always think of Hina as a Thorn and wish her the best in her new opportunity."

For Portland, they acquire left-back, M.A. (Mary Alice) Vignola, who also has the ability to play winger. Vignola originally signed with ACFC in December of 2021 and has appeared in over 60 matches for the club (in all competitions). She has already earned a cap with the USWNT as well.

“Portland has a huge and long history of winning and this is going to be a great opportunity to show what I’m capable of," said Vignola "I think I bring a little feistiness and I’m the type of player that doesn’t like to back down – and I’m ready to face any challenge with this group as we move forward.”

 “M.A. is exactly the type of player we’ve been looking to add,” said Agoos. “She addresses a critical need in our squad – a physical, no-nonsense defender who isn’t afraid to do the dirty work and sets a standard with her competitiveness. She’s the kind of teammate you want in any battle, and her addition positions us for success as we enter into the playoffs and beyond.”

In January of 2022, Hina Sugita signed a three-year contract with the Portland Thorns. In December of 2023, the club signed her to an extension through 2026.

Sugita will now be "reunited" with ACFC Sporting Director and former Portland Thorns head coach Mark Parsons, who was instrumental in bringing the Japanese International to the Rose City. She will also join a team with Japan stars: Jun Endō, Miyabi Moriya, and Hannah Stambaugh.

The fan-favorite and beloved star leaves a lasting impact on the city, community, and club. Those include her contributions on the field, what she gave off of it too.

There is no doubt she is a player folks won't ever forget, and will be dearly missed by the Rose City.

What are your thoughts on the trade?

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