Alexia Putellas ready to be ‘pushed to the limit’ in debut WSL season after stunning London City Lionesses free transfer

ALEXIA PUTELLAS is prepared to be pushed to the limit in her debut WSL campaign. The 32-year-old completed a stunning free transfer to London City Lionesses last month after ending her trophy-laden 14-year stay with Barcelona. Alexia Putellas says she is excited to maker her WSL debut Putellas joined London City Lionesses in a free transfer last month Now she is gearing up for a completely new challenge in what she considers to be one of the most competitive leagues in the world. Putellas said: “You never know which will be the result of the game, so it’s a very competitive league week after week. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! “We haven’t started [the season] yet but if I have to imagine all the games will push you to your limit. It’s a very entertaining league. That’s a key point for the fans.” Having swapped Barcelona for Bromley, the two-time Ballon d’Or winner is now eager to develop further as a player – despite having already won 40 major trophies. She continued: “It will be different for sure but that’s why I’m here, because I’m looking forward to improving as a footballer, as a person as well. “It’s being more of a complete player as much as I can, so learning new things, playing with and against other players, just trying to find where my limits are. “It will take time because, of course, it’s a new beginning, a big change for me but I’m so excited to be here.” Putellas had extensive conversations with London City owner Michele Kang prior to making the move and was particularly impressed by the ambition of the club. Most read in Sport CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS The 32-year-old ended her 14-year stay with Barcelona in May Credit: Getty London City Lionesses were only promoted to the WSL last year, but Kang has plans to develop them into a European powerhouse. Putellas added: “The first conversation was about what the club wants and how ambitious the project is. I want to be part of that journey, bring the experience I have and learn as a player and make me more complete. “I made the move for that and just being in another position that I’ve never been in and in my opinion this league can give me that. “Always, day after day, I want to learn things. I’m learning new things and that’s the way I see this job. Just keep going, never be stopped and be as better as I can.” As well as speaking to Kang, Putellas also got in contact with former Barcelona team-mates Keira Walsh and Lucy Bronze – both now at Chelsea – who briefed her on life in England. “Some of them told me that it’s a hard league and they’re gonna kick me,” she laughed. “No, just joking! “But no problem, I’m ready for that or I’m trying to be ready. Just enjoy the league because the games are crazy and even if you go for an away game it’s like something’s different, something special and I’m ready for enjoying all of that and being ready for what the games will be for me.” Putellas could make her debut on the opening day of the season when London City Lionesses host Manchester United on September 4 at the Copperjax Community Stadium. WSL opening weekend fixtures 4th September – London City Lionesses vs Manchester United 5th September – Chelsea vs Aston Villa 6th September – Brighton vs Arsenal 6th September – Tottenham vs West Ham 6th September – Charlton vs Liverpool 6th September – Crystal Palace vs Everton 6th September – Manchester City vs Birmingham City Comment now