Mapi Leon, the Spain defender with more than 50 caps and 27 trophies, has signed a three-year deal with London City Lionesses after leaving Barcelona. The 31-year-old spent nine years at the Catalan club, starting their 4-0 Champions League final win over Lyon this year – their fourth European title – and winning two Nations Leagues with Spain.
Leon’s move reunites her with former Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas, who joined London City Lionesses four days earlier. The club, backed by American billionaire Michele Kang, finished sixth in their first WSL season and have ambitions of European qualification. This transfer window has already brought two-time Ballon d’Or winner Putellas, England goalkeeper Mary Earps, Germany forward Nicole Anyomi and Denmark defender Janni Thomsen.
“Spain defender Mapi Leon joins London City Lionesses on a three-year deal after leaving Barcelona.”
“I’m excited and happy to be here,” Leon said. “It’s an interesting and attractive project. I have seen what is being built and what is taking shape. 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’s arrival follows a turbulent period with the national team. She boycotted Spain for almost three years from 2022 over working conditions and a falling-out with the Spanish Football Federation, withdrew from selection for the 2023 World Cup – which Spain won – and missed their Euro 2025 final defeat. She returned in October 2025 and started the Nations League final a month later as Spain beat Germany 3-0.
Of Kang, Leon said: “She 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. 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.”