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The Unstoppable Return of a Queen: Putellas's Phenomenal Comeback
After battling back from a devastating ACL injury suffered just before Euro 2022, Alexia Putellas has not just returned to form – she's surpassed it. Last year, the 32-year-old superstar tallied an astonishing 27 goals and 21 assists, propelling Barcelona to a domestic treble and the Champions League final.
Her full season in 2024-25, free from lingering niggles, marked her most prolific period since her back-to-back Ballon d'Or wins in 2021 and 2022. This resurgence has placed her firmly in contention for the sport's most prestigious individual award once more, proving that true class is permanent.
Against the Odds: Barcelona's Resilient Campaign
Barcelona Femení faced an uphill battle from the outset of the 2025-26 season. Financial constraints severely impacted their transfer activity, with only one first-team signing – the return of Spain international Laia Aleixandri on a free transfer from Manchester City.
In stark contrast, several senior players, including Ingrid Engen, Ellie Roebuck, Fridolina Rolfo, Bruna Vilamala, and Jana Fernandez, departed. The club also saw promising youth prospects move on for fees. This left Barça with a remarkably lean squad of just 21 players to compete across four demanding fronts.
The Youth Infusion & Stepping Up
This meant a significant increase in responsibility for the remaining core and the integration of young talents like Serrajordi and Camacha into full-time senior roles. The impetus was squarely on established stars like Putellas to shoulder a greater load and inspire those around them.
Injury Tsunami: Barça's Test of Depth
Adding to the squad depth challenge, Barcelona endured a brutal injury crisis throughout the season. Reigning Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmatí was sidelined for five months with a broken leg.
Patri Guijarro, arguably the world's best holding midfielder, missed three months due to a stress fracture. Summer signing Aleixandri suffered a season-ending ACL rupture, while key figures like goalkeeper Cata Coll and world-class centre-back Mapi Leon also faced significant spells out. Shorter absences for Ona Batlle and Ewa Pajor further stretched resources, making Putellas's consistent presence even more vital.
Captain's Command: Goals, Assists, and Unwavering Leadership
When the chips were down, Alexia Putellas stepped up with a captain's performance. Accustomed to the stellar midfield partnership with Guijarro and Bonmatí, she has demonstrated unparalleled versatility and resilience. Her numbers speak volumes: 21 goals and 12 assists across all competitions.
Her two-goal masterclass in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Bayern Munich was a standout moment, as were her three goals and three assists in the three consecutive matches against arch-rivals Real Madrid in March. Notably, Putellas leads the Champions League in direct goal involvement this season, with 14 goals and assists from just 10 games – a remarkable three contributions clear of any other player.
Beyond the Stats: The Intangible Power of a Leader
Putellas's impact extends far beyond her statistics. Her leadership has been an invaluable asset, particularly with so many young players integrated and experienced stalwarts recovering from injury. Esmee Brugts, Barça's 23-year-old left-back, highlights her influence: "She's a player who always tries to help other girls... she is always demanding at least 100 per cent from everyone, and from herself in the first place."
Brugts added, "It calms me down a lot to play next to her and she gives me the confidence to play a good game myself." This intangible mentorship and ability to inspire teammates under pressure are hallmarks of a true captain and underscore her profound importance to Barcelona's success.
Legacy on the Line: Champions League Final & Ballon d'Or
The stage is set for a monumental Women's Champions League final against formidable opponents Lyon. Having been part of the Barça side that fell to Arsenal in last year's final, Putellas will be doubly motivated to secure victory.
Compounding the drama are swirling rumors about her future, with her contract set to expire this summer. While she has consistently reiterated her love for Barcelona and focus on the games, a move could be on the horizon. To lead her beloved club to Champions League glory in what might be her final game would be the ultimate fairytale ending.
When Barcelona clashed with Lyon in the 2024 final, Putellas's stoppage-time strike sealed the victory. A decisive performance this time could not only deliver the trophy but also etch her name into history with a third Ballon d'Or, cementing her status as an all-time great.
