Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, a pivotal figure in the growth of women's football in Spain and worldwide, is leaving Barcelona after 14 seasons. The club announced on Tuesday that Putellas will officially bid farewell at an event at Camp Nou stadium on Wednesday, providing an opportunity to honor the legacy of a player who has become a role model both on and off the pitch and has significantly contributed to the global expansion of women's football.
Champions League Triumph and Future Speculation
The 32-year-old midfielder helped Barcelona secure their fourth Champions League title in six seasons on Saturday. While no immediate announcement has been made regarding her next move, speculation in Spain suggests she may join the rapidly emerging London City Lionesses. Putellas attended a Lionesses match in London in January, fueling rumors of a potential transfer.
Record-Breaking Career at Barcelona
Since joining Barcelona at age 18 from Levante in 2012, Putellas played 507 games for the Catalan club, making her second on the all-time appearance list. She scored 232 goals, a club record, and won 38 trophies, including four Champions League titles and 10 Spanish league championships. Reflecting on her time at the club, Putellas said in a social media video: "The time has come to acknowledge that I've given everything for these colors. It's been a perfect story."
Impact on Spanish and Global Football
Putellas was Barcelona's standout player during their first Champions League victory in 2021 and earned back-to-back Ballon d'Or awards in 2021 and 2022, helping elevate women's football in Spain internationally. Her influence was considered crucial in Spain's 2023 World Cup triumph. During the crisis that followed former federation president Luis Rubiales' controversial kiss at the World Cup awards ceremony, Putellas led the player revolt that led to his resignation. "We've taken the women's team further than we ever imagined," she said. "At the beginning, being a soccer player wasn't even recognized as a profession. Now I feel privileged to have been part of this change."
Overcoming Injuries
Serious leg injuries threatened her status at both Barcelona and Spain. After being sidelined for months, she considered leaving Barcelona due to limited playing time but eventually signed a contract extension. Her resilience and leadership have left an indelible mark on the sport.
