A seismic signing for London City
London City Lionesses have officially announced the signing of two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas at a glitzy event in New York, confirming the arrival of one of the women's game's all-time greats in the Women's Super League. The 32-year-old Spain midfielder joins on a free transfer after ending her 14-year association with Barcelona, where she won 38 trophies including four Champions League titles.
The Guardian revealed in early June that Putellas had agreed personal terms with London City, who finished sixth in their debut WSL season. Her three-year deal was unveiled by the club's American owner Michele Kang, who also owns Washington Spirit and Olympique Lyonnais.
How the deal happened
Putellas was available after deciding not to renew her Barcelona contract. Despite interest from almost every top club worldwide, the midfielder was drawn to London City's unique project as a women-only independent club. Crucially, she did not want to play for a direct rival of Barcelona, which ruled out moves to Arsenal or Chelsea. London City also offered a far more lucrative contract than Barcelona could match.
Kang's ambition played a pivotal role. The billionaire businesswoman has invested heavily in the squad this summer, also signing England goalkeeper Mary Earps from Paris Saint-Germain, Denmark defender Janni Thomsen, and Germany forward Nicole Anyomi. Reports suggest they are close to adding Spain defender Mapi León and have been linked with Barcelona forward Salma Paralluelo.
I am thrilled to embark on this new chapter with London City Lionesses. The club's ambition and its steadfast commitment to growing as a women-only independent club resonate deeply with me. I look forward to making an impact on the pitch as we challenge for titles. Off the pitch, building on my passion for youth development, I am equally excited to work with Michele in elevating women's football in England and on the global stage.
Kang added:
Alexia Putellas embodies the pinnacle of talent, dedication, and vision in women's football. Her decision to join our independent, women-first club is a powerful endorsement of what we are building at London City. This is more than a signing, it is a bold statement about the future of the sport.
A glittering career filled with silverware
Putellas leaves Barcelona as their all-time leading appearance maker with 513 games and 234 goals. She won 10 Liga F titles, 10 Copa de la Reina trophies, and four Champions Leagues, including a historic quadruple in her final season. Internationally, she was instrumental in Spain's 2023 World Cup triumph and their run to the 2025 European Championship final.
Her individual accolades are staggering: two Ballon d'Ors, two FIFA Best awards, and multiple UEFA Player of the Year honours. She is widely regarded as one of the most complete midfielders ever, combining technical brilliance, vision, and goal-scoring ability.
What Putellas brings to the WSL
The WSL has previously welcomed legends like Sam Kerr, Alex Morgan, and Carli Lloyd, but Putellas's arrival arguably surpasses them all given her current standing in the game. Her presence will elevate the league's profile, attract global audiences, and inspire a new generation of players.
London City, who play their home games in Bromley, have signalled their intent to challenge the established WSL elite. With Putellas orchestrating the midfield, they could quickly become title contenders.
Key Takeaways
- London City Lionesses completed the free transfer of Alexia Putellas on a three-year contract.
- Putellas, a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, left Barcelona after 14 years and 38 trophies.
- The Spain star was unveiled in New York by owner Michele Kang, who has invested heavily in the squad.
- Putellas rejected other top clubs to avoid joining a Barcelona rival and was attracted by London City's women-only independence.
- Her signing is arguably the biggest in WSL history and signals London City's title ambitions.
Quick Facts
Player: Alexia Putellas
Age: 32
Position: Midfielder
Previous club: Barcelona
Barcelona appearances: 513
Barcelona goals: 234
Major honours: 4x Champions League, 10x Liga F, 10x Copa de la Reina, World Cup 2023
Individual awards: 2x Ballon d'Or, 2x FIFA Best
Contract length: Three years