Alexia Putellas to leave Barcelona after 14 years with London City Lionesses in the race

Alexia Putellas will end her 14-year association with Barcelona when her contract expires this summer, with London City Lionesses, Paris Saint-Germain, and several American clubs among those linked with the two-time Ballon d’Or winner.

The 32-year-old captain made the announcement days after leading Barcelona to a fourth Champions League title in six seasons, a 4-0 demolition of Lyon in the final in Oslo. Her final appearance for the club is set to be Wednesday’s Liga F fixture against Real Sociedad.

“The moment has come to admit that I have given everything for [the club] with daily discipline and obsession in pursuit of constant improvement for 14 years,” Putellas wrote on Instagram. “I have always said that this jersey cannot be defended halfway and I admit that I have emptied myself. That is why I wanted to tell you that this Wednesday will be my last match as a player for FC Barcelona.”

She added: “I always said I wanted my final moment to come while I was at my very best, giving everything and with 100 per cent energy.”

London City Lionesses, who finished sixth in their debut Women’s Super League season, have been heavily linked with the Spain international, and club sources did not deny they are pursuing her signature. A move to Lionesses would represent a significant statement of ambition for the newly promoted side, though they face considerable competition. PSG and clubs in the United States are also reported to be interested in signing the World Cup winner, who helped Spain claim the 2023 title.

Putellas joined Barcelona’s academy in 2011 and went on to become one of the most decorated players in the history of the women’s game, winning back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 2021 and 2022.