Jun Endo’s return is nearly complete.
Endo, who joined Angel City FC for its inaugural season, suffered an ACL injury in her left knee during preseason last year and was placed on the season-ending injury list, sitting out the entire season.
Friday, the club announced that fan-favorite midfielder had finally been removed from the injury list and was available for Saturday’s game against the Chicago Stars. Endo, who is one of eight players remaining from the 2022 inaugural roster, was on the gameday roster, but didn’t appear in the game.
“Jun has worked tirelessly to get back on the pitch,” ACFC VP of Medical and Performance Sarah Smith said in a statement. “Her determination to play for herself, her teammates, and the fans was felt every day. Jun’s return is a credit to her hard work and the diligence of our incredible medical team and training staff who supported Jun in every facet of her rehab and recovery.”
Endo quickly became a fan favorite in the first season. She assisted on the team’s first goal and scored the second goal in club history.
She played in all 22 games in the club’s debut season and 18 games (three goals, two assists) in 2023. Endo also appeared in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with Japan.
Last season, Endo signed a new contract through 2027.
