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Alexia Putellas led London City Lionesses to an impressive 2-1 win over Manchester United in their opening Women’s Super League match, sending an early warning to the rest of the WSL. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner shone on her debut in England and said her star-packed side will improve even further.

Putellas makes winning start

The two-time Ballon d’Or winner began life in English football in perfect fashion as London City Lionesses beat United 2-1 in their first game of the 2026-27 Women’s Super League campaign. The Spanish midfielder captained her new club at the Copperjax Community Stadium, much to the delight of owner Michelle Kang, who was watching on.

The home side were far more comfortable winners than the final score suggested. A Julia Zigiotti Olme own goal and a second-half flick from Danielle van de Donk gave the Lionesses total control against an off-colour United side, who did not register their first shot on target until the 97th minute, when Simi Awujo scored a late consolation.

Still adapting to a physical league

In spite of the commanding display from the team, Putellas said she is still getting used to the physical nature of her new surroundings. The summer signing was pleased to come away with all three points, but said supporters can expect the team’s football to keep improving.

“We are so happy,” Putellas told BBC. “We had a strong beginning so [we’re] really, really happy. I’m still learning, it’s the first game. It’s a physical league. I’m the player who thinks the ball always moves faster than the legs so we’re going to try to improve that kind of thing.

“It’s the first game, we have to bring more improvement of course. We are going to give better and better football to our crowd. Very happy to start with three points and we keep moving.”

High standards and growing chemistry

London City manager Eder Maestre was delighted with how well his side clicked after giving four players their debuts. Star goalkeeper Mary Earps stayed on the bench because of pre-season fitness concerns, but Elene Lete slotted in smoothly. Maestre said Putellas offers much more than just quality on the pitch, highlighting the leadership she brings within the squad.

“Alexia knows all the things that can bring to others - because it’s not only the thing that she’s capable of doing on the field, it’s all the things that can help us,” Maestre said.

“Having this kind of player in the squad is very important because she represents the high standards and having her involved in the project [is important, because of] her performance and the leadership she can bring in terms of helping us to reach the standard [we want].

“The biggest impact is the way we played as a team, having everybody connected very well. The chemistry we are building around the players is the most important thing today.”

What next for Putellas?

This result gives London City a highly convincing start to the season. Their next assignment is a WSL meeting with West Ham this coming weekend, with Putellas set to try and lead her side to another three points at the Hammers’ home ground.