Alexia Putellas has become the first Ballon d’Or winner associated with the Women’s Super League after claiming the women’s award for a record-equalling third time.
The London City Lionesses midfielder was recognised after captaining Barcelona to a quadruple last season, including Champions League success. She scored 26 goals and supplied 15 assists for club and country during the campaign.
Putellas then made a remarkable move to London City in July, leaving the club where she had spent 14 years. The 32-year-old has since scored three goals and provided one assist in seven WSL appearances.
Putellas brings Ballon d’Or spotlight to the WSL
Her award carries particular significance for the English top flight because the WSL had never previously been able to claim a Ballon d’Or winner among its players. That changed when Putellas collected the prize at Monday’s ceremony in London as a London City Lionesses player.
Her arrival was one of the biggest transfers in WSL history and represented a major statement from a club that is still only seven years old. London City are owned by Michele Kang, who also owns Washington Spirit and OL Lyonnes, as part of an ambition to reshape the women’s game.
Putellas’ decision to join the club has been described as a leap of faith in that project. Her presence has also coincided with an impressive start to life in England, with London City third in the WSL and on a five-match winning run.
The team have become one of the league’s most entertaining sides and only Manchester City and Chelsea have scored more goals since the start of April. Putellas has contributed directly with four goal involvements this term, while her influence has also been reflected in the form of her team-mates.
Danielle van de Donk has emerged as a creative force, Grace Geyoro has provided power in midfield and Delphine Cascarino has offered an increased attacking threat. London City’s development under manager Eder Maestre has accelerated to the point that Champions League qualification is considered a realistic target.
Putellas’ arrival is expected to increase attention on the WSL and intensify competition among its leading clubs. London is already home to half of the division’s teams within a 36-mile radius, and London City’s new star has given supporters another reason to focus on the club in Bromley.
For a league seeking to attract new supporters and commercial partners, the presence of a three-time Ballon d’Or winner represents a significant opportunity. Putellas has not only brought individual recognition to London City Lionesses, but has also added a new dimension to the WSL’s wider growth.
