Laia Aleixandri is a Spanish professional footballer celebrated for her intelligence, composure, and versatility as a defender and defensive midfielder. A key figure for Manchester City and the Spain national team, she has earned recognition as one of Europe’s most complete and reliable defenders.
Early Life and Background
Born on August 25, 2000, in Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain, Laia Aleixandri began her football journey at Arrabal Calaf and Sant Gabriel before joining Barcelona’s academy. Her formative years at Barcelona laid the foundation for her technical excellence and tactical awareness.
Club Career
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Barcelona B (2015–2017):
Aleixandri played for Barcelona’s reserve side, gaining valuable experience in Spain’s competitive youth system. -
Atlético Madrid (2017–2022):
She moved to Atlético Madrid at age 17, making 115 league appearances and scoring 8 goals over five seasons. Aleixandri helped the team win three Spanish league titles and established herself as one of the top defenders in the Primera División. -
Manchester City (2022–2025):
Joining Manchester City in June 2022, Aleixandri quickly became a mainstay in defense. She made 88 appearances and scored 3 goals for City, playing as a centre-back, full-back, and defensive midfielder. Her leadership and adaptability were crucial, especially during injury absences in the squad. She helped City maintain one of the best defensive records in the Women’s Super League and scored memorable goals, including a winner against Arsenal in the FA Cup. Her contract is set to expire in summer 2025, with interest from top European clubs in securing her signature.
International Career
Aleixandri has represented Spain at every youth level, winning the UEFA U-17 and U-19 European Championships. She debuted for the senior national team in 2019 and has since earned 39 caps and scored 3 goals. Aleixandri was part of the Spain squad that won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, contributing to the team’s defensive strength and depth.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Position: Centre-back, full-back, defensive midfielder
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Key Attributes:
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Tactical intelligence and reading of the game
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Calmness and composure under pressure
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Excellent passing and ball-playing ability
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Versatility across the back line and midfield
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Leadership and communication
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Aggressiveness and resilience in duels
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Career Stats (as of May 2025)
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Date of Birth: August 25, 2000
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Age: 24
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Nationality: Spanish
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Height: 1.70 m
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Position: Defender, defensive midfielder
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Current Club: Manchester City (No. 4)
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Barcelona B Appearances: —
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Atlético Madrid Appearances: 115 (8 goals)
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Manchester City Appearances: 88 (3 goals)
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Spain Senior Caps: 39 (3 goals)
Achievements and Honors
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Three-time Spanish league champion with Atlético Madrid
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FA Cup semi-finalist and key contributor to Manchester City’s top defensive record
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UEFA U-17 and U-19 European champion with Spain
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FIFA Women’s World Cup winner (2023) with Spain
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Named by UEFA as one of Europe’s top young talents (2020)
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Regular in Spain’s senior national team since 2019
Frequently Asked Questions About Laia Aleixandri
How old is Laia Aleixandri?
She is 24 years old, born on August 25, 2000.
What position does Laia Aleixandri play?
She is a defender, comfortable as a centre-back, full-back, and defensive midfielder.
Which clubs has Laia Aleixandri played for?
She has played for Barcelona B, Atlético Madrid, and Manchester City.
What are Laia Aleixandri’s major achievements?
She is a three-time Spanish league champion, a FIFA Women’s World Cup winner, and a UEFA youth champion.
What makes Laia Aleixandri stand out?
Her tactical intelligence, composure, versatility, and leadership on and off the pitch.
Conclusion
Laia Aleixandri’s journey from Barcelona’s academy to starring for Manchester City and Spain highlights her exceptional talent, adaptability, and leadership. As she enters a new chapter in her career, she remains one of Europe’s most respected and sought-after defenders.
