Irene Paredes is one of the most respected and accomplished centre-backs in world football. As a leader for both FC Barcelona and the Spain national team, she is known for her commanding presence, aerial ability, and tactical intelligence. Her career is filled with major titles and personal milestones, making her a true icon in the modern game.
Early Life and Background
Irene Paredes Hernández was born on July 4, 1991, in Legazpi, Gipuzkoa, Spain. She began her football journey with local Basque clubs Ilintxa, Urola, and Zarautz before making her senior debut for Real Sociedad at just 17 years old. Her early experiences in the Basque Country shaped her competitive spirit and defensive skills.
Club Career
Real Sociedad
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Made her senior debut in 2008 at age 17.
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Played three seasons and established herself as a reliable defender.
Athletic Bilbao
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Joined Athletic Bilbao in 2011.
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Became a key player and helped the team win the Spanish league title in 2015–16.
Paris Saint-Germain
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Moved to PSG in 2016, stepping onto the European stage.
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Appointed club captain in 2018.
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Led PSG to their first-ever French league title in 2021, ending Lyon’s long reign.
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Won the Coupe de France Féminine and reached the Champions League final.
FC Barcelona
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Signed with Barcelona in July 2021.
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Made her official debut for Barça in September 2021.
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Scored her first Barcelona goal in October 2021 and her first Champions League goal in November 2021.
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Won her first title with Barcelona in January 2022 (Supercopa de España Femenina).
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Helped Barcelona win back-to-back league titles and the UEFA Women’s Champions League in 2023 and 2024.
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Became one of the team’s captains and a defensive leader, especially during injury absences in the squad.
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Known for key performances, including a crucial goal-line clearance in the 2024 Champions League final.
International Career
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Debuted for the Spain national team in 2011.
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Has earned over 100 caps and captained the team.
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Played every match in Spain’s historic 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning campaign.
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Helped Spain win the 2024 UEFA Women’s Nations League.
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Also represented the Basque Country national team.
Achievements and Honors
Club Honors
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FC Barcelona
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UEFA Women’s Champions League: 2023, 2024
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Spanish League: Multiple titles
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Spanish Cup: Multiple titles
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Spanish Super Cup: Multiple titles
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Paris Saint-Germain
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Division 1 Féminine: 2021
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Coupe de France Féminine: 2018
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Athletic Bilbao
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Spanish League: 2016
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International Honors
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FIFA Women’s World Cup: Winner (2023, Spain)
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UEFA Women’s Nations League: Winner (2024, Spain)
Playing Style and Strengths
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Dominant in aerial duels and set pieces.
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Technically skilled and comfortable building play from the back.
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Strong leadership and organizational skills, often captaining both club and country.
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Composed, tactically intelligent, and reliable in high-pressure matches.
Career Stats (as of May 2025)
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Date of Birth: July 4, 1991
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Height: 1.77 m
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Position: Centre-back
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Current Club: FC Barcelona
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Club Number: 2
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Barcelona Appearances: 136
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Barcelona Goals: 13
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Spain Caps: 109+
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Spain Goals: 13+
Frequently Asked Questions About Irene Paredes
How old is Irene Paredes?
She is 33 years old, born on July 4, 1991.
What position does Irene Paredes play?
She plays as a centre-back (defender) for FC Barcelona and the Spain national team.
What are Irene Paredes’ major achievements?
She has won the FIFA Women’s World Cup (2023), UEFA Women’s Champions League (2023, 2024), multiple league and cup titles, and captained Spain to Nations League victory.
How many times has Irene Paredes played for Spain?
She has made over 100 appearances (caps) for the Spanish national team.
What makes Irene Paredes stand out as a defender?
Her leadership, aerial dominance, technical skill, and ability to organize the defense make her one of the world’s top centre-backs.
Conclusion
Irene Paredes’ journey from the Basque Country to the pinnacle of world football is a testament to her talent, resilience, and leadership. With a trophy-laden career at club and international level, she continues to set the standard for defenders everywhere. As captain of Spain and a key figure for Barcelona, Paredes remains a role model and inspiration for the next generation of footballers.
