Jana Fernández fuels London City Lionesses’ rise in the WSL

After arriving from Barcelona, London City Lionesses Jana Fernández has become a cornerstone of the club’s WSL campaign, bringing a decade‑long Barcelona pedigree to a side eager to cement its rise. Her experience includes five league titles and three Champions trophies, and she quickly adapted to the English game.

From La Masia to senior squad

Fernández spent more than a decade at Barcelona. She joined the academy at twelve, progressed through La Masia and made her first‑team debut as a teenager. By the time she left in 2025 she had collected five league titles and three Champions League trophies.

Immediate impact in the WSL

Last season Fernández featured in every one of London City Lionesses’ 22 WSL fixtures, starting 21 and amassing 1,902 minutes. She also recorded 40 tackles won, 33 interceptions and 53 crosses, establishing herself as one of the side’s most reliable performers. Supporters recognised her contribution by voting her Fans’ Player of the Season.

Fernández has now signed a new deal that secures her stay in London until 2029, a move that aligns with the club’s rapid transformation. The contract underscores both her personal ambition and the organisation’s desire to retain key talent as it builds a competitive WSL identity.

Adapting to a different style

“As a Barca player we used to dominate possession,” Fernández explained, noting that the English game is tighter. She added that defensive actions have risen from one or two per match at Barcelona to fifteen‑twenty in the WSL, forcing her to become more alert and complete.

She praised teammates for sharing experience, saying “I’m happy that I’m learning new things and that my colleagues help me improve a lot as a player.” The collaborative environment has accelerated her development and enjoyment of the league.

The club’s roster has also evolved, with departures such as Teyah Goldie and arrivals like Alexia Putellas adding depth. Fernández said playing alongside former Barcelona stars feels “incredible”, as she instantly recognises movements and positioning that suit her style.

She stresses that success cannot rely solely on individual connections; the team must build a collective identity. “We’re also building it all together,” she asserted, pointing to improved infrastructure, new signings and a clearer tactical vision.

Reflecting on the season, Fernández believes the side has made a “big improvement” compared with the previous campaign, with ideas now ready to be executed on the pitch. The progress mirrors her own evolution from a newcomer to a guiding figure within the WSL club.