**Spanish Football Legend Alexia Putellas Joins London City Lionesses**
In a significant development for women’s football, two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has officially signed with the London City Lionesses, a club competing in the Women’s Super League (WSL). The announcement was made on July 8, 2026, and marks a pivotal moment for both the player and the club as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Putellas, who recently concluded a remarkable 14-year career at FC Barcelona, where she amassed four UEFA Champions League titles, was a free agent prior to joining the Lionesses. Her decision to move to London City is seen as a major coup for the club, which is set to compete in the WSL for the second consecutive season after being promoted in 2024-25.
The Lionesses, owned by American billionaire Michele Kang, finished sixth in their debut WSL campaign, showcasing potential and ambition to challenge established teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City. Kang has expressed her commitment to transforming the women’s game in England, and the addition of Putellas is a testament to that vision.
“I am excited to join London City Lionesses,” Putellas stated. “The club’s ambition and its steadfast commitment to growing as a women-only independent club resonate deeply with me.” Her arrival is expected to enhance the Lionesses' competitiveness and elevate the profile of the WSL as a premier destination for elite female football talent.
Putellas, 32, has been recognized as the world's best female player in both 2021 and 2022. Her accolades include being part of the Spanish national team that triumphed in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Her experience and skill set are anticipated to have a profound impact on the Lionesses as they aim to build on their previous season's performance.
Michele Kang praised Putellas in a club statement, saying, “Alexia Putellas embodies the pinnacle of talent, dedication, and vision in women’s football. Her decision to join our independent, women-first club is a powerful endorsement of what we are building at London City.”
Putellas will join a talented roster that includes former England goalkeeper Mary Earps and international stars such as Delphine Cascarino, Grace Geyoro, and Kosovare Asllani. The collaboration of such talented players is expected to bolster the Lionesses' aspirations for the upcoming season.
Despite the excitement surrounding Putellas' signing, the Lionesses will not participate in the UEFA Women’s Champions League next season, as the three English spots have been secured by City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Nonetheless, the club's focus remains on strengthening its position within the WSL and competing at the highest level.
As the women’s game continues to grow in popularity and professionalism, the addition of a player of Putellas' caliber is likely to attract further attention to the league and inspire young athletes across the country. With her leadership and experience, the London City Lionesses are poised to make a significant impact in the WSL as they embark on the 2026-27 season.