Alexia Putellas Signs With London City Lionesses

Transfer Details and unveiling

London City Lionesses have secured a three‑year contract with two‑time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas. The Spain midfielder left Barcelona after 14 seasons, opting for a free transfer when her contract expired. Putellas was the final choice after a battle between London City and Boston Legacy for her services. She was introduced to fans in New York City alongside owner Michele Kang, a US billionaire. The deal is expected to make Putellas the club’s highest‑paid player.

Putellas’s Grand Resume

During her stint at Barcelona, Putellas collected 38 trophies, including ten league titles. She set a club record of 232 goals in 507 appearances and ranks second on the all‑time list for games played. In her final season, she lifted a fourth Champions League trophy as captain. Internationally, she captured the 2023 World Cup with Spain and was part of the side that lost the Euro 2025 final to England. After missing Euro 2022 with an ACL tear, she returned the following year and earned consecutive Ballon d’Or awards in 2021 and 2022.

Reaction from the key figures

Putellas expressed excitement about beginning a new chapter, citing the club’s ambition and its focus on youth development. She highlighted the opportunity to work with Kang to elevate women’s football both in England and globally. Kang praised Putellas as the embodiment of talent, dedication, and vision, calling the signing a bold statement about the sport’s future. London City released a statement promising growth in fan engagement, attendance, and academy programs through her mentorship.

London City’s Rapid Rise

After securing promotion from the second tier last summer, the team finished sixth in their inaugural Women’s Super League campaign. Owner Michele Kang’s financial backing has funded new training facilities, medical research, and increased wages and staffing. The club’s resources now rival those of the WSL elite, positioning them as a disruptive force. Analysts note that the investment could nudge top WSL sides to watch their backs as London City aims for a European spot.

Impact on the WSL landscape

The addition of Putellas is expected to spark a surge in sponsorship and marketing interest across the league. Fans in Bromley will have a global star to watch each week, boosting match attendance. Rivals will feel pressure as London City’s ambition shows no signs of slowing. The transfer signals a shift in the competitive balance of women’s football in England.

Key figures at a glance

• 3‑year deal – length of Putellas’s contract with London City.
• 38 trophies – total titles won with Barcelona.
• 10 league titles – domestic championships collected.
• 232 goals – club record for most goals scored.
• 507 appearances – second‑most appearances in Barcelona history.
• 2 Ballon d’Or awards – 2021 and 2022 honors.
• World Cup 2023 – international triumph with Spain.
• Euro 2025 final loss – runner‑up to England.