London City Lionesses are delighted to confirm the signing of Spanish defender María León on a deal until the summer of 2029.
The 31-year-old arrives following the conclusion of her contract at Barcelona.
A key player in the Catalan side’s golden era, León signed for Barcelona in 2017 and during her nine-year spell, lifted four UEFA Women's Champions League titles, seven Liga F titles, seven Copa de la Reina trophies and six Spanish Super Cups.
León also represents Spain at international level, earning more than 50 caps.
She began her senior career with her hometown club Zaragoza CFF before moving to Espanyol and later Atlético Madrid, where she won the Primera División and a Copa de la Reina title.
Widely recognised as one of the best defenders in women's football, León primarily plays as a centre-back but is also comfortable at left-back.
León said: “I’m excited and happy to be here. It’s an interesting and attractive project. I have seen what is being built and what is taking shape.
“I played in Spain for many years and I felt now was the right time to move given the project. The English league is helping women’s football grow. I wanted to test myself in another country, another league, playing a different type of football.
“What can I say about Michele (Kang)? I think it is incredible what Michele conveys. She is an inspirational woman who wants women’s football to develop and thrive. Of course, I want to be part of something like this, a club which has been created for women.
“My team-mates will help me settle into the new environment and I hope my experience and leadership can help the team this season. I am looking forward to working with head coach Eder (Maestre), the staff and my new team-mates.
“Everyone has told me London is a cool city and that I’m going to love it. I’ll take it step-by-step. My aim is to adapt as quickly as possible to the team and the league and from there be able to give my best contribution as a player and as a person.“My intention here is to reach the highest level as quickly as possible. Everything in a project goes in stages and requires hard work.
“I want to keep winning and still have the determination to be able to achieve this. Hopefully we can do this with London City Lionesses.”
