Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined London City Lionesses on a three-year deal following her exit from Barcelona.

The 31-year-old spent nine years at Barcelona and started their 4-0 win over Lyon in this year’s Women’s Champions League final – their fourth European title.

She won 27 trophies in total, as part of one of Europe’s most successful teams, and joins former Barcelona team-mate Alexia Putellas in London.

Leon has more than 50 caps for Spain and helped them win a second Nations League title in 2025.

“I’m excited and happy to be here. It’s an interesting and attractive project. I have seen what is being built and what is taking shape,” said Leon.

“I played in Spain for many years and I felt now was the right time to move given the project. The English league is helping women’s football grow.

“I wanted to test myself in another country, in another league, and playing a different type of football.”

Leon boycotted the Spain national team for almost three years, alongside several team-mates, because of disagreements over working conditions and a falling-out with the Spanish Football Federation, which began in 2022.

She withdrew from selection for the 2023 Women’s World Cup as Spain went on to beat England in the final, and was absent from their Euro 2025 final defeat.

The centre-back returned in October 2025 and started the Nations League final a month later as Spain beat Germany 3-0.

London City Lionesses, who are backed by American billionaire Michele Kang, finished sixth in their first season in the WSL.

They have ambitions of challenging for European qualification this season and have had a remarkable transfer window so far.

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Putellas and former England goalkeeper Mary Earps have already joined, alongside Germany forward Nicole Anyomi and Denmark defender Janni Thomsen.

“[Kang] is an inspirational woman who wants women’s football to develop and thrive. Of course, I want to be part of something like this, a club which has been created for women,” added Leon.

“My team-mates will help me settle into the new environment and I hope my experience and leadership can help the team this season.

“I want to keep winning and still have the determination to be able to achieve this. Hopefully we can do this with London City Lionesses.”

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