Laia Aleixandri Returns to Barcelona After Three Years at Manchester City

Laia Aleixandri has officially returned to Barcelona after letting her contract with Manchester City expire. The Spain national team defender has signed a long-term contract until 2029 with the Catalan club.

Aleixandri’s return to Barcelona — the club that nurtured her since 2012 — fills the void left by Ingrid Engen who announced her departure last week. She will join an impressive defensive lineup alongside Irene Paredes, Mapi León, and Jana Fernández.

Aleixandri’s career journey began in Barcelona’s academy before moving to Atletico Madrid in 2017. During her time in the Spanish capital, she won two Liga F titles and made over 100 appearances before joining Manchester City in 2022.

The 24-year-old defender recorded 87 appearances for the English club before deciding to return to Barcelona. Her versatility as both a center-back and defensive midfielder makes her a key choice for Spain national team coach Montse Tomé for the upcoming European Championship in Switzerland.