London City Lionesses have secured the signing of Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, on a three-year deal, marking a significant milestone in women's football. The announcement was made in New York City on July 8, 2026.
Putellas, a Spanish midfielder widely recognized as one of the greatest players in the sport, left Barcelona after 14 successful years. She won 38 trophies with the club, including 10 league titles, before making the switch to London City.
Putellas' Move to London City Lionesses
Putellas' transfer comes after a remarkable career at Barcelona, where she became the club's all-time second-highest appearance maker with 507 matches and scored a record 232 goals. Her decision to join London City was influenced by the club's ambitions and the opportunity for new challenges.
“Everything has a beginning and an end. The history [at Barcelona] was perfect. After 14 years, I felt it was the perfect moment to leave,” Putellas stated during her unveiling. She emphasized that her move was not based solely on financial incentives but rather on a desire for growth.
Impact on London City and Women's Super League
Owner Michele Kang expressed that Putellas' arrival would elevate the club's status and competitiveness within the Women's Super League (WSL). “It will take the club to the next level. I think it can help take the WSL to the next level,” Kang noted.
London City finished sixth in their debut WSL season, and the addition of a player of Putellas' caliber is expected to attract more fans and sponsorship opportunities. The club aims to build on this momentum to compete for a European spot.
Significance of the Signing for Women's Football
The signing of Putellas is seen as a transformative moment for London City and women's football in general. Her presence is anticipated to drive fan engagement and strengthen youth development programs through her mentorship.
Putellas' introduction was celebrated at a lavish event in New York, attended by investors and media. The event underscored the growing visibility and investment in women's football, signaling a new era for the sport.
- Putellas won 4 Champions League titles with Barcelona.
- She is expected to earn a base salary of under £1 million, with potential bonuses.
- Putellas scored 232 goals in 507 appearances for Barcelona.
- She captained Spain to a World Cup victory in 2023.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by BBC Football. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
