Alexia Putellas, the two-time Ballon d'Or winner and Barcelona star, has spoken publicly for the first time since joining London City Lionesses, describing her hunger to win and her willingness to fully commit to the ambitious WSL club's project. Her arrival marks a major coup for the English top flight, making her the first Ballon d'Or winner to play in the WSL, and signals the growing financial and competitive strength of English women's football as it attracts genuine global superstars.

Putellas leaves Barcelona after a trophy-laden 14-year spell, during which she won four Champions League titles, for a London City Lionesses side that finished 22 points off European qualification and sixth in their WSL debut season last term. The club, backed by businesswoman Michele Kang, has made several high-profile signings this summer including France forward Kadidiatou Diani, Putellas's former Barcelona teammate Mapi León, and ex-England goalkeeper Mary Earps. Putellas, 32, said she has no fixed expectations but wants to keep improving and sees the move as a chance to become a more complete player.