Alexia Putellas becomes first WSL player to win women’s Ballon d’Or after London City move

Alexia Putellas has become the first player at a Women’s Super League club to win the women’s Ballon d’Or, collecting her third award following her summer move to London City Lionesses.

The Spain midfielder finished ahead of Barcelona’s Ewa Pajor and Manchester City striker Khadija Shaw at Monday’s ceremony in London. Her victory adds to her awards in 2021 and 2022, bringing her level with Aitana Bonmatí on three wins.

Putellas joined London City in July, but her success recognises a final season at Barcelona in which she helped the club win four trophies.

Barcelona farewell delivers a third Ballon d’Or

Barcelona won the Champions League, Liga F, Copa de la Reina and Spanish Super Cup before Putellas ended her 14-year spell at the club.

Their European campaign finished with a 4-0 victory over Lyon in Oslo. Putellas contributed seven goals and seven assists across the competition and was named Champions League Player of the Season.

She subsequently joined London City on a free transfer, taking her career into English football after winning every major club honour with Barcelona.

London City now have a three-time winner in their midfield during only their second WSL season. Our report on their recent victory over Everton covers their continuing league campaign.

Shaw finishes third after Manchester City double

Shaw completed the podium following Manchester City’s WSL and FA Cup double.

City secured the league title before beating Brighton 4-0 at Wembley, completing that particular double for the first time in their history. Shaw scored the opening goal in the final.

According to UEFA’s results announcement, the leading five were:

1. Alexia Putellas
2. Ewa Pajor
3. Khadija Shaw
4. Melchie Dumornay
5. Patri Guijarro

Why Aitana Bonmatí was not nominated

Bonmatí, who won the previous three editions, was absent from this year’s shortlist after an injury-disrupted season.

The Barcelona midfielder suffered a fractured fibula in November and returned in May, having required surgery, as detailed in GOAL’s assessment of the contenders.

Putellas’ victory means the two Spain midfielders have shared the last six women’s Ballon d’Or awards.