OSLO, Norway (AP) — As speculation swirls about his next move. alexia puterasan interesting scene unfolded when the great Barcelona captain went to collect the Women’s Champions League trophy on Saturday.
Mr. Puteras walks along the receiving line towards the trophy he received. Michel Kang, owner of OL Lyon. Reports in England and Spain suggest that Can could soon become the Spanish star’s next employer.
Can’s other European club, fast-rising London City Lionesses, is widely expected to enter the market for a statement.
Can, the world’s leading private investor in women’s football, appeared to take a step back as Puteras hugged Barcelona official Rafa Juste.
Next month, Putelas’ contract expires at the club where he spent 14 years, winning four Champions League titles and two Ballon d’Or as the best player in the world.
The 32-year-old’s emotional departure from the field did little to dispel the notion that her time at Barcelona was nearing its end. The idea was also spurred by her attendance at a Lionesses match in London in January.
When asked by a Catalunya Radio reporter, “When will we know how we’ll play next season?” he said, “Everyone will know.”
Yuste, a club official, also refused to comment on his future when asked by reporters immediately after the final.
Puteras appeared teary-eyed as he spoke to broadcaster Disney+ on the field, admitting: “I don’t think so, or people may not believe it, but I’m a sensitive person.”
Once again she declined to discuss her plans for next season, although Barcelona still have two Spanish league games remaining next week, although the club’s 10th title is assured.
“Today we have to be present to savor this moment, because it is so difficult to get here,” she said. “It’s a day to be proud of this team and what we’ve done over the years.”
With his teammates, the trophy at his feet and a lawn littered with glittering confetti, Puteras joined in with a frenzied version of Barcelona’s club anthem, chanting “Barca! Barca! Barça!” crescendo.
Can warmly consoled Lyon midfielder Lindsey Heaps before Barcelona accepted their trophies and medals to Can’s polite applause. The U.S. national team captain is definitely moving on, returning home to join NWSL expansion team Denver Summit.
A few minutes later, Kang walked out of the scene and was handed a pair of black sunglasses by an aide. The American businessman then left to celebrate with the star-studded new champions.
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Associated Press writer Joseph Wilson in Barcelona contributed.
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