London City Lionesses sign World Cup-winning midfielder María Pérez from FC Barcelona for undisclosed fee

We’re delighted to confirm that María Pérez has joined London City Lionesses from FC Barcelona for an undisclosed fee, with the FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning midfield signing a two-year contract at Hayes Lane.

The 22-year-old is currently unavailable for selection, suffering a knee injury in preseason training, and will complete a full rehabilitation programme under the supervision of the Club’s medical and performance staff.

“With María, it’s better to mention what she needs to develop instead of describing her qualities because, if I spoke about all of her talents, I would probably need an hour,” said London City Lionesses head coach Jocelyn Prêcheur.

“María is a complete player, she is smart, technically gifted, and is perfectly adapted to our project. She likes to control the ball and can decide the rhythm of play. I really wanted María in my team, we did everything we could to convince her to join the project, and the Club did an amazing job at making the transfer happen. She is perfect for our style of play.”

When asked about Pérez’s injury, Prêcheur added: “It’s very unfortunate that María is injured. After the injury, she went back to Spain to receive the small surgery she needed and she’s been treated there for the first part of the rehabilitation.

"She will join us in London soon and everyone here is ready to work with her to make sure that she is able to play again as quickly as possible.”

The Barcelona-born midfielder arrives in London with an impressive resume, contributing to Spain’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and 2024 UEFA Women’s Nation League triumphs as a core member of the squad.

Domestically, Pérez has split her time between FC Barcelona (winning multiple national and continental honours), FC Barcelona B (with whom she claimed back-to-back Primera Federación titles), and Sevilla (where she spent last season on loan).

“When London City called me and they explained Michele [Kang’s] project and vision, I had no doubts about coming here,” said Pérez of her decision to join the Pride.

“It’s a very ambitious project and it’s very exciting for me to come to a new league, new country, and new team at this point in my career. It was a difficult decision, but I feel that England is the best place for me to continue to develop as a player and as a person, and I’m looking forward to playing here.

“I like Michele’s plan for the future of women’s sports and how England lives football, with men and women. There are big stadiums full, with people watching women’s football, and this was an important factor in my decision to come here.”

Pérez, whose transfer is subject to the usual regulatory clearances, will wear the No. 14 jersey.