Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined London City Lionesses on a three-year deal following her departure from Barcelona, where she spent nine years and won 27 trophies, including four Women's Champions League titles. The 31-year-old, who has more than 50 caps for Spain and helped them win the Nations League in 2025, joins former Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas in London. Leon boycotted the Spain national team for almost three years due to disagreements over working conditions and a falling-out with the Spanish Football Federation, which began in 2022. She withdrew from selection for the 2023 Women's World Cup and was absent from the Euro 2025 final defeat, but returned in October 2025 and started the Nations League final victory over Germany. London City Lionesses, backed by American billionaire Michele Kang, finished sixth in their first WSL season and have ambitions of challenging for European qualification. The club has had a remarkable transfer window, also signing two-time Ballon d'Or winner Putellas, former England goalkeeper Mary Earps, Germany forward Nicole Anyomi, and Denmark defender Janni Thomsen. Leon expressed excitement about the project and her desire to keep winning, saying she hopes her experience and leadership can help the team.
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