Laia Aleixandri has quickly established herself as one of the best young defenders in women’s football. Her journey from Barcelona’s youth system to becoming a key player for Manchester City and the Spanish national team is inspiring. With her intelligence, composure, and leadership, Aleixandri is a crucial part of Spain’s footballing future.
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Early Life and Youth Career
Born to Play Football
Laia Aleixandri Losada was born on August 25, 2000, in Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain. From a young age, she showed a natural talent for football. Like many Spanish kids, she grew up playing in the streets and quickly stood out for her technical skills and defensive awareness.
Developing at Barcelona’s La Masia
Aleixandri joined Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, one of the best in the world. She learned the fundamentals of possession-based football, improving her passing, positioning, and decision-making.
However, despite her talent, breaking into Barcelona’s senior team was difficult. In 2017, she made a bold move to Atlético Madrid, seeking first-team opportunities.
Atlético Madrid: Making a Name for Herself
Breaking into the First Team
At just 17 years old, Aleixandri made her senior debut for Atlético Madrid. She quickly impressed with her defensive intelligence and calmness on the ball.
Winning the Primera División
Her breakthrough season came in 2018-19, when she helped Atlético Madrid win the Primera División title. Despite her young age, she played with maturity beyond her years. She showed great positional awareness, strong tackling, and leadership qualities.
Champions League Experience
Aleixandri also gained valuable experience in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, playing against Europe’s best teams. These matches helped her develop a higher level of tactical awareness and adaptability.
After five years at Atlético Madrid, Aleixandri was ready for a new challenge. In 2022, she made another bold move—this time to England.
Manchester City: Stepping Up in the WSL
Adapting to English Football
In July 2022, Aleixandri signed with Manchester City, one of the top teams in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Moving to England was a big step. The WSL is known for its physicality and intensity, which required Aleixandri to adapt quickly.
Becoming a Defensive Leader
Despite the transition, she settled in well. Her ability to read the game, intercept passes, and build from the back made her a key player for City. She played as both a center-back and defensive midfielder, showing her versatility.
Under manager Gareth Taylor, Aleixandri continued to develop. She played alongside top players like Alex Greenwood and Steph Houghton, learning from experienced defenders.
Competing for Titles
With Manchester City, Aleixandri has competed for WSL titles and domestic cups. She has helped City maintain one of the best defensive records in England. Her ability to remain calm under pressure has made her one of the league’s most reliable defenders.
Spanish National Team: World Cup Glory
Youth Success
Aleixandri has represented Spain at every youth level, winning major tournaments along the way. She played a key role in Spain’s victories at the U-17 and U-19 European Championships, showcasing her leadership and defensive skills.
Breaking into the Senior Team
Her performances at club level earned her a call-up to Spain’s senior national team in 2019. Since then, she has become a regular in the squad.
Winning the 2023 Women’s World Cup
Aleixandri was part of the Spain squad that won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Even though she wasn’t always a starter, her presence added depth to the squad. This victory marked a historic moment for Spanish women’s football, and Aleixandri played an important role in Spain’s defensive stability throughout the tournament.
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Playing Style: A Complete Defender
Aleixandri is a modern center-back who combines defensive solidity with technical excellence. Here’s what makes her such a special player:
1. Tactical Intelligence
She reads the game exceptionally well, often intercepting passes before opponents can react. Her positioning allows her to anticipate danger and make crucial defensive plays.
2. Passing Ability
Unlike traditional defenders, Aleixandri is comfortable with the ball at her feet. She can play short, precise passes to build attacks from the back, fitting perfectly into City’s possession-based style.
3. Versatility
Aleixandri can play as a center-back, right-back, or defensive midfielder. This flexibility makes her invaluable for both club and country.
4. Composure Under Pressure
She remains calm even in high-pressure situations. Whether playing in big matches or defending against top attackers, she rarely makes mistakes.
5. Leadership and Mentality
Despite her young age, Aleixandri is a natural leader. She communicates well with teammates and shows great maturity on the pitch.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
While Aleixandri is an elite defender, there are still areas she can work on:
1. Physical Strength
The WSL is more physical than Spain’s Primera División. Developing more strength will help her compete better against powerful strikers.
2. Aerial Duels
She is not the tallest center-back, so improving her aerial ability will help her dominate defensive situations even more.
3. Goal Contributions
While her primary role is defending, adding more goals and assists to her game would make her an even bigger asset for Manchester City and Spain.
Future Prospects: What’s Next for Aleixandri?
Aleixandri’s future is incredibly bright. Here’s what could be next for her:
1. Becoming City’s Defensive Leader
With players like Steph Houghton nearing retirement, Aleixandri is in line to become Manchester City’s defensive leader. She has the talent and mentality to guide the team to future success.
2. More International Success with Spain
Winning the 2023 Women’s World Cup was just the beginning. Spain has a young, talented squad, and Aleixandri could play a bigger role in future tournaments, including the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro and the 2027 World Cup.
3. Winning the Champions League
One of the biggest goals for Aleixandri is to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Manchester City is building a strong squad, and with her at the heart of the defense, they could challenge for the title in the coming years.
Conclusion
Laia Aleixandri’s rise in football has been impressive. From Barcelona’s academy to winning the Spanish league with Atlético Madrid, then moving to Manchester City and lifting the Women’s World Cup with Spain, she has achieved so much at a young age.
Her intelligence, composure, and leadership make her one of the best young defenders in the world. Whether in the WSL or international football, Aleixandri’s future is filled with potential. If she continues her upward trajectory, she will be a key figure in women’s football for years to come.
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