Hong Kong footballer Iris Kwok Ching-man joins Spanish side Rayo Vallecano

Iris Kwok Ching-man, a Hong Kong footballer who plays as a midfielder for Hong Kong Women's League club Grace Citizen, will be joining Spanish side Rayo Vallecano and has penned a contract until May 2025.

Rayo Vallecano (Women) is currently playing in the Segunda Federación - the third tier of the Spanish women's football league system.

Kwok joined Citizen in 2014 and has helped the team win four league titles in 10 seasons, she was also named captain for the past two seasons. Featuring in eight league games this season, Kwok has scored six goals.

Kwok also represented Hong Kong at two AFC Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament editions, as well as the 2018 Asian Games.

Commenting on her new journey, Kwok said she is looking forward to joining the new squad as Spain is renowned for their top-level football and their high training standards.

“I hope that this experience can not only enhance and push me beyond my limits but also allows me to enjoy being a professional player. I also hope that this can serve as encouragement to female football players in Hong Kong to continue to keep striving because there will definitely be more opportunities for everyone to go professional." Kwok added.