Champions League WOMEN
Champions League star Mapi Leon joins london City Lionesses
In Oslo, under a crisp May sky, Kika Nazareth and Mapi Leon lifted the Women’s Champions League trophy after FC Barcelona defeated OL Lyonnes on Saturday, May 23, 2026 (Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP). The image of the two players touching the silver cup captured the climax of a 4‑0 final victory.
The triumph was the latest highlight for Barcelona, but the celebration turned into a farewell as the wave of departures continued on Monday. London City Lionesses announced that 31‑year‑old Mapi León had signed a three‑year deal as a free agent after her contract with Barcelona expired.
León arrives having won four Champions League titles in nine seasons, anchoring Barcelona’s defence alongside playmaker Alexia Putellas. All four trophies were lifted with Putellas orchestrating the midfield, underscoring their long‑standing partnership.
Putellas herself completed a statement signing for the fast‑rising club last week, a move backed by United States businesswoman Michele Kang, the club’s owner. Kang’s investment signals ambition for the English side in the Women’s Super League.
Speaking in the club statement, León praised her new boss: “What can I say about Michele?” she asked. “She is an inspirational woman who wants women’s football to develop and thrive.”
The summer off‑season also saw Spain right back Ona Batlle leave Barcelona, signing for Arsenal after her contract ended with the European champion. Batlle, León and Putellas all started in the Barcelona side that beat OL Lyonnes, also owned by Kang, in the May final.
León added, “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.” Her comments highlight the appeal of the English competition.
London City finished sixth in the English Women’s Super League last season, their debut in the top tier, a league ultimately won by Manchester City. The club’s recruitment of Champions League talent suggests a push to climb higher in the coming years.