London City sign Ballon d’Or winner Putellas
London City Sign Ballon d'Or Winner Alexia Putellas in Historic Deal
London City sign Ballon d Or winner - London City has made a landmark move by signing Alexia Putellas, the two-time Ballon d'Or winner, to a three-year contract. This signing marks a significant moment for the club, which is rapidly emerging as a dominant force in women’s football. Putellas, the 32-year-old Spanish midfielder, joins London City after a successful 14-season stint with FC Barcelona. Her decision to leave the iconic Catalan club underscores her desire to expand her influence on the global stage, aligning with London City’s vision of fostering excellence in women-only football.
A Career Defined by Dominance and Triumph
Alexia Putellas has been a pivotal figure in women’s football for over a decade, earning her place among the sport’s elite. During her time at Barcelona, she played a key role in the club’s unprecedented success, contributing to 38 major trophies, including 10 La Liga titles. Her exceptional talent was recognized with back-to-back Ballon d'Or awards in 2021 and 2022, cementing her status as one of the best players in the world. Putellas’ departure from Barcelona comes after leading Spain to a World Cup final in 2023 and a runner-up finish in the Euro 2025 tournament, where she showcased her leadership and skill on the international stage.
"I am thrilled to embark on this new chapter with London City Lionesses," Putellas said in a statement. "The club’s commitment to women-only football and its ambitious goals resonate deeply with me. I look forward to using my experience to help elevate the team and the league as a whole."
London City’s Strategic Expansion
Putellas’ arrival follows a period of rapid growth for London City, which secured promotion to the top tier of English football last summer. The club’s owner, Michele Kang, a US billionaire, has been instrumental in driving this expansion, investing heavily in infrastructure and talent development. The signing of Putellas is a clear indication of London City’s intent to compete at the highest level, both domestically and internationally. With her experience and accolades, the club aims to solidify its position as a leader in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and beyond.
As a free agent, Putellas has opted for a more flexible approach, joining London City on a base salary of under £1 million per year. This decision allows her to focus on her playing career while also participating in the club’s off-field initiatives, such as youth development and community engagement. Her presence is expected to inspire a new generation of players and fans, further boosting the profile of the WSL. The financial backing from Kang ensures that the club can offer competitive wages and incentives, making the transfer a win-win for both parties.
Putellas’ transition to London City is not only a personal milestone but also a strategic investment for the club. Her reputation as a top-tier midfielder is matched by her versatility and ability to adapt to different playing styles. The Lionesses’ management has emphasized that her inclusion will strengthen the squad’s depth and competitiveness, particularly in key areas such as midfield control and set-piece execution. This move also signals London City’s intent to attract high-profile talent, setting a new standard for recruitment in the WSL.
The signing ceremony took place at the W Hotel in New York’s Union Square, reflecting London City’s global ambitions. The event, streamed live, featured a blend of elegance and energy, with marble columns and gold lighting creating a striking backdrop for the announcement. Attendees included investors, media representatives, and football enthusiasts, all eager to witness the club’s continued rise. Putellas’ presence at the event highlighted her status as a symbol of progress in women’s football, with her joining a team that is redefining the sport’s future through innovation and dedication.
With Putellas on board, London City Lionesses are poised to make a strong impact in the upcoming season. Her experience in high-pressure environments, both at Barcelona and during international competitions, will be invaluable as the team aims to challenge for top honors. The club’s long-term strategy includes not only competing for league titles but also securing a place in European competitions, a goal that Putellas’ arrival brings them closer to achieving. This signing is a testament to the growing opportunities for women in football and the potential for clubs like London City to lead the charge.