The year 2021 was an exceptionally successful one for then 27-year-old Alexia Putellas. The midfielder scored 18 goals in 31 league matches and played a key role in FC Barcelona’s record-breaking season in the Primera División.

Putellas also shined in the most prestigious competition in club football, the Champions League final: she scored one goal and provided an assist in the historic 4-0 victory over Chelsea FC – the highest margin of victory ever in a UEFA Women’s Champions League final.

Alexia is often involved in decisive moments of play and is actively sought out by her teammates. Whether dribbling diagonally toward the defense or shielding the ball with a defender on her back – she almost always makes the right decision, forcing opponents into defensive errors. Her precise ball control and exceptional game awareness give her a clear advantage in such situations. Position-based attacks rarely pose a problem: with sudden, pinpoint dribbles against the defensive flow, she often creates scoring opportunities for herself or her teammates.

Thanks to her outstanding understanding of the game, her team is almost always optimally positioned – not only to create continuous goal threats but also to launch effective counter-pressing immediately after losing possession. This is supported by the disciplined forward movement of the defensive lines. Alexia’s incredible athleticism enables her to actively seek out duels in pressing situations while also initiating high pressing from the front line – often covering large distances.

Alexia is more than just a key system player. She not only enables the tactically brilliant system implemented by coach Jonatan Giráldez through her role and skills – her rare, magical, and unconventional moments add an extra layer of brilliance and depth to the team.

Here you can admire Alexia’s footballing skills.

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