Salma Paralluelo is one of the brightest stars in women’s football, celebrated for her explosive pace, technical skill, and ability to deliver in the biggest moments. As a left winger for FC Barcelona and a key figure for Spain, she has already made history as the only player to win the U-17, U-20, and senior FIFA World Cups.
Early Life and Background
Salma Celeste Paralluelo Ayingono was born on November 13, 2003, in Zaragoza, Spain, to a Spanish father and an Equatoguinean mother. Her family moved to Spain to access medical care for her brother, and Salma grew up alongside two more brothers, José Jaime and Lorenzo, both footballers.
Athletic and Football Career
Before football, Salma was a standout sprinter, winning national medals and setting records in the 400 meters. She balanced elite athletics with football until her late teens, excelling in both disciplines.
Club Career
-
Developed at UD San José and Zaragoza CFF in her hometown.
-
Signed her first professional contract with Villarreal, scoring 23 goals in 37 appearances.
-
Nominated for the 2022 FIFA Puskás Award for one of the year’s best goals.
-
Joined FC Barcelona at the end of the 2021–22 season.
-
In the 2023–24 season, scored four goals in a single match against Real Sociedad and finished as Barcelona’s top scorer in all competitions, helping the club win four major trophies.
-
As of spring 2025, has played 90 matches and scored 61 goals for Barcelona, winning two Liga F titles, two UEFA Women’s Champions League crowns, three Spanish Super Cups, and one Copa de la Reina.
International Career
-
Won the 2018 UEFA U-17 Championship and the 2018 FIFA U-17 World Cup with Spain.
-
Returned from an ACL injury to win the 2022 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
-
Made her senior Spain debut in November 2022, scoring a hat-trick against Argentina.
-
At the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, scored the extra-time winner in the quarter-final against the Netherlands and netted again in the semi-final versus Sweden, helping Spain reach-and win-their first senior World Cup. Named Best Young Player of the Tournament.
-
As of April 2025, has 35 caps and 14 goals for Spain’s senior team.
Achievements and Honors
Club Honors with FC Barcelona
-
UEFA Women’s Champions League: 2 titles
-
Liga F: 2 titles
-
Spanish Super Cup: 3 titles
-
Copa de la Reina: 1 title
International Honors with Spain
-
FIFA Women’s World Cup: Winner (2023, Best Young Player)
-
FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup: Winner (2022)
-
FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Winner (2018)
-
UEFA Women’s U-17 Championship: Winner (2018)
Individual Awards
-
2022 FIFA Puskás Award nominee
-
2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Best Young Player
-
Youngest player to score for Spain at a Women’s World Cup
Playing Style and Strengths
-
Primarily a left winger but comfortable across the front line.
-
Renowned for her speed, endurance, and powerful left foot.
-
Thrives in high-pressure situations, scoring decisive goals in major tournaments.
-
Physically strong and technically gifted, with a knack for beating defenders and creating chances.
Career Stats (as of April 2025)
-
Date of Birth: November 13, 2003
-
Height: 1.74 m
-
Position: Left winger / Forward
-
Current Club: FC Barcelona
-
Club Number: 17
-
Barcelona Appearances: 90
-
Barcelona Goals: 61
-
Spain Senior Caps: 35
-
Spain Senior Goals: 14
Frequently Asked Questions About Salma Paralluelo
How old is Salma Paralluelo?
She is 21 years old, born on November 13, 2003.
What position does Salma Paralluelo play?
She plays as a left winger and forward for FC Barcelona and the Spain national team.
What are Salma Paralluelo’s major achievements?
She is the only player to win the U-17, U-20, and senior FIFA World Cups, and was named Best Young Player at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
How many goals has Salma Paralluelo scored for Barcelona?
She has scored 61 goals in 90 appearances as of spring 2025.
Has Salma Paralluelo played other sports?
Yes, she was a national-level sprinter and set Spanish records in athletics before focusing fully on football.
Conclusion
Salma Paralluelo’s journey from Zaragoza’s tracks to the pinnacle of world football is a story of talent, resilience, and history-making achievements. Already a global star at 21, she continues to inspire with her performances for Barcelona and Spain, rewriting records and setting new standards for the next generation.
