Captain Alexia Putellas will leave FC Barcelona after the 2025-26 season following the team's fourth UEFA Women's Champions League title [1].
The departure of Putellas, a cornerstone of the Barcelona Femení project, signals a potential transition for the dominant side. With several other senior players also set to depart, the club must now navigate a rebuilding phase to maintain its grip on European football.
Putellas spent 14 seasons with the club [2]. During her tenure, she established herself as one of the world's premier midfielders and a two-time Ballon d'Or winner [2]. Her exit follows the Champions League final, which took place during the weekend of May 22-24 [1].
The club's recent success includes securing four Champions League titles [1]. However, the loss of veteran leadership creates a void in the squad. Putellas' contract expires at the end of the current season, and she has chosen to move on [3].
This exodus of senior talent comes at a moment of peak achievement for the team. While the squad remains the most successful in the region, the departure of multiple key players suggests a shift in the team's internal hierarchy, one that will require new leadership to sustain their winning streak.
Barcelona has not yet announced a replacement for the captain. The club now faces the challenge of integrating younger talent or scouting established stars to fill the gaps left by the departing veterans [1].
“Alexia Putellas will leave FC Barcelona after the 2025-26 season”
The departure of Alexia Putellas marks the end of a defining era for Barcelona Femení. By losing a two-time Ballon d'Or winner and other senior figures simultaneously, the club risks a dip in stability despite their recent trophy success. The transition will test whether Barcelona's systemic dominance is tied to specific legendary players or if the club's infrastructure can produce a seamless succession of talent.
