Full Breakdown
Alexia Putellas Announces Departure from Barcelona After 14 Seasons
5/28/2026, 1:30:35 PM
The Farewell Announcement
Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday that midfielder Alexia Putellas will leave the club when her contract expires next month. The 32-year-old made the announcement at a ceremony on Wednesday at the Spotify Camp Nou, before playing her final home game against Real Sociedad at the Estadi Johan Cruyff. Sources say the Women's Super League side London City Lionesses are the frontrunner for her signature, although the player has not yet confirmed a destination.
Background & Context
Putellas joined Barcelona in 2012 after spells with Espanyol and Levante. Over 14 seasons she helped transform the team from a domestic contender into a European powerhouse, guiding the club to its first UEFA Women’s Champions League final and subsequently to seven finals, winning four. Her tenure coincided with Barcelona’s professionalisation, record-breaking attendances and the move to the Johan Cruyff Stadium.
Data & Statistics
- 38 trophies with Barcelona, including 10 Liga F titles and 4 Champions League crowns.
- 500+ official appearances and 232 career goals for the club (second-only to Lionel Messi across men’s and women’s teams).
- 20 goals and 12 assists in all competitions during the 2023-24 season.
- Two Ballon d’Or awards (2021, 2022) and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with Spain.
Official Statements & Responses
Barcelona’s official communication described Putellas as “the eternal captain” who will “close the curtain on her career as a Barca player after 14 years with the first team.” President-elect Joan Laporta called her “more than a player,” while teammate Irene Paredes labelled her the “motor of Barça’s evolution.” London City Lionesses’ owner Michelle Kang’s project has been cited as a potential next step, and the club’s representatives have expressed confidence in securing the deal.
On-the-Ground Reports
The ceremony was marked by visible emotion; Putellas broke into tears several times. She later posted an Instagram video reflecting on “fourteen seasons and more than 500 matches” and affirmed her lifelong identity as a “cule” (Barca fan). The farewell match attracted a full house at the Johan Cruyff Stadium, with supporters chanting her name throughout.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While London City Lionesses are the most frequently mentioned destination, other outlets note interest from the NWSL, Mexican clubs and Paris Saint-Germain. Putellas herself has stated she has not yet decided where to continue her career, leaving the final outcome uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have given everything in these 14 years,” — Alexia Putellas
- “I didn't want to continue with the level of demand I have placed on myself -- it's not normal over so many years.” — Alexia Putellas
- “My career will continue, but the best part of it has now passed.” — Alexia Putellas
- “It was the most difficult decision of my life.” — Alexia Putellas
- “It was a very emotional day [making the announcement].” — Alexia Putellas
- “Fourteen seasons and more than 500 matches, with moments that will remain forever in Barca’s memory and in my heart,” — Alexia Putellas
Why It Matters
Putellas’ exit marks the end of an era that defined modern women’s football in Spain and Europe. Her potential move to the WSL could represent the league’s biggest signing, signalling growing financial and competitive parity across continents. For Barcelona, the departure initiates a broader squad transition, with several senior players also approaching contract expiry.
What’s Next
Putellas will play her final Barcelona match on Wednesday against Real Sociedad. Her contract ends in July, after which she may join London City Lionesses or another suitor. Barcelona is expected to negotiate extensions with key players such as Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo while preparing for the 2024-25 season under head coach Pere Romeu.
