Alexia Putellas: Unmasking London City's Spanish Superstar

Alexia Putellas had her first press event with the English media in Maidstone, where not a single seat remained unoccupied. The two-time Ballon d'Or winner expressed surprise at the attention as she entered the room filled with journalists eager to meet her. Often referred to as "Le Reina" or "the queen" in Spain, Putellas is recognized as one of her generation's greatest players. She captained Barcelona to a Women's Champions League title in May and is a World Cup winner with Spain.

In the summer, Putellas signed with the London City Lionesses, a move described as the biggest signing in the Women’s Super League (WSL) history. She aims to navigate a new chapter at her club, embracing the challenges that come with it. During a discussion with the BBC's Women's Football Weekly podcast, she shared insights into her career journey and her shift to London City.

Putellas hails from Mollet del Valles, a municipality in Catalonia. She grew up watching games at Nou Camp and was inspired by former Barcelona player Andres Iniesta, alongside Brazilian legends Rivaldo and Ronaldinho. During her youth, she participated in summer camps led by Xavi and played locally before joining Barcelona's renowned youth academy, La Masia. After a few years away from Barca, she returned in 2012, marking the beginning of a remarkable 14-year journey that included winning 38 trophies, 10 league titles and 4 European cups. In 2021 and 2022, she was awarded the Ballon d'Or, and she is favored to win again this year. She played a crucial role in Spain's victory at the 2023 World Cup and their runners-up finish at Euro 2025.

Now at 32, Putellas is focused on continued improvement and personal growth as a player. She expressed her commitment to finding her limits at London City, preparing for their season opener against Manchester United on 4 September. She acknowledged her move away from the Champions League to join an independent club—a risk she is eager to take. Putellas described her mindset as adaptable, ready to provide whatever the team requires.

Despite her success, she maintains a grounded view on her football journey. Following an ACL injury that sidelined her during Euro 2022, she learned to appreciate every aspect of the game. She stated that she strives to enjoy both competition and learning, consistently seeking self-improvement.

Although still mastering English, Putellas has demonstrated a unique footballing intellect. Her manager, Eder Maestre, recognizes her leadership qualities on the training pitch, likening her to a secondary coach. Putellas believes effective communication in football goes beyond verbal language—it's about instinct and understanding the game.

Her celebrity status was highlighted at her London City unveiling, attended by billionaire Michele Kang in New York. Putellas has garnered significant social media attention, with 3.4 million Instagram followers and a mural of her in superhero attire painted in her hometown. Although she enjoys her fame, she prefers to stay true to herself, admitting her initial press conference felt daunting. Nevertheless, she takes her role in the spotlight in stride, smiling at the prospect of sharing her remarkable career with a new audience.