How ‘Barca way’ continues despite big-name exits

Barcelona have begun their Women’s Champions League title defence strongly despite losing several leading players, including Alexia Putellas, Mapi León, Ona Batlle and Salma Paralluelo. They have won all three league-phase matches and scored 19 goals, leaving them favourites ahead of Thursday’s meeting with Arsenal.

The article attributes Barcelona’s continuity to a shared playing identity, shaped by La Masia and carried through the team as players move between positions. Esmee Brugts, who joined in 2023 and has made more than 100 appearances, says the club’s approach helps new players adapt. Arsenal, sixth in the Women’s Super League after a five-game winless run, have taken seven points from their first three European matches.