Alexia Putellas, the two-time Ballon d'Or winner and icon of FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team, has been on a remarkable journey of recovery and rediscovery following a devastating ACL injury in July 2022. Now in 2025, she reflects on the arduous path back to the pinnacle of women's football, a path that has not only tested her physical strength but also her mental fortitude.
The injury, suffered just before the EURO 2022, sidelined her for months, forcing her to watch from the sidelines as her teammates competed without her. The road to recovery was long and filled with challenges. There were days when self-doubt crept in, when the goal of returning to her former level seemed distant. However, Putellas remained steadfast in her determination, focusing on the small victories each day. "It's all about putting another droplet in the glass every day," she said, "so the moment when you're back gets that tiny bit closer."
Her return to the pitch in April 2023 was a momentous occasion, marking the culmination of months of tireless rehabilitation. Although she made it to the 2023 Women's World Cup, Putellas has admitted she was not at her best. The tournament came too soon after her return, and she was still working her way back to full match fitness. Despite this, she played a part in Spain's triumph, making a substitute appearance in the final against England.
Now, in 2025, Putellas is feeling like her old self again. She has put in the work to regain her physical strength and sharpness, and she feels mentally strong and confident. "The cruciate, the meniscus: you’ve closed that cycle. Done," she stated, a clear indication that she has put the injury behind her and is ready to move forward. This newfound freedom is not just about physical recovery; it's about a mental liberation, a release from the shadows of the past.
Her resurgence has been evident in her performances for both Barcelona and Spain. She played a key role in Barcelona's UEFA Women's Champions League victory over Arsenal in May 2025, showcasing her leadership and goal-scoring ability. She is also a driving force for Spain as they compete in the UEFA Women's EURO 2025, with high hopes of adding the European title to their World Cup crown.
Looking ahead, Putellas remains as ambitious and driven as ever. Despite having achieved so much in her career, she is constantly seeking new challenges and striving for further success. She has signed a contract extension with Barcelona, keeping her at the club until at least 2026, and has expressed her desire to continue playing into her late thirties. While committed to Barcelona, she has also hinted at the possibility of playing for another club in the future, leaving the door open for a potential move to the NWSL. Some predict she may join the Washington Spirit in 2025, reuniting with former Barcelona coach Jonatan Giraldez.
Alexia Putellas' journey is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and unwavering love for the game. She has overcome a career-threatening injury to return to the top of women's football, and she is now determined to make the most of the years ahead. She is ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead, driven by a desire to win and a passion for the sport that burns as brightly as ever.
