Putellas, New

BROMLEY, England — Manchester United could not overshadow the debut of Alexia Putellas as her new team, the London City Lionesses, triumphed with a 2-1 victory on Friday. The win could have been more decisive, but as the opening match under the lights unfolded in Bromley, owner Michele Kang had much to celebrate after a summer filled with strategic investments.

Before a record crowd of 5,402, glimpses of Putellas’ extraordinary talent emerged, although her performance wasn’t the standout of the night. The Lionesses demonstrated confidence and composure, with an opener resulting from an own goal by Julia Zigiotti Olme and a clever flick from Daniëlle van de Donk. United’s solitary goal came in the 99th minute, a consolation from Simi Awujo, in an otherwise lackluster showing from the visitors.

The fans who made the trip to this corner of southeast London witnessed the revamped London City, boasting new stars and ambitions to join Europe’s elite soccer teams. Putellas, who made history as the most significant overseas signing in Women’s Super League, has been a crucial figure in her team’s strategy.

Having left Barcelona after an illustrious 13-season tenure filled with championships, the double Ballon d’Or winner opted for London City after being drawn to Kang’s ambitious project. Former Barcelona star Mapi León, ex-England standout Mary Earps, and talented Kadidiatou Diani also joined her in this new chapter.

London City continues to operate under the radar in this London locality. The train station leads to the home of Bromley AFC, a League One side. The journey through residential areas, small lanes, and Norman Park leads to Hayes Lane. As fans approached the stadium a few hours before kickoff, Barcelona and Spain shirts were frequently spotted, all sporting the same name: No. 11 — Alexia. Her surname was unneeded; she is simply known by her first name.

Moments before kickoff, Kang — who also oversees OL Lyonnes and Washington Spirit as part of her Kynisca group — strolled past the packed press area, greeting familiar faces while stating, “Be kind to our players; it’s our first game!” After all, her expectations remained high following a summer filled with remarkable signings and displays of ambition.

This season opener was particularly special, arriving a day after London City announced their front-of-shirt sponsor, Nike, who provided a substantial commitment. Additionally, on match day, Putellas revealed that her YouTube channel would stream one WSL match per weekend from Spain, starting with her debut on Friday.

In typical fashion, the hype surrounding opening night could lead to disappointing performances. However, that was not the case this time.

London City exerted control throughout the match. An own goal by Zigiotti Olme came as a result of pressure from Alanna Kennedy, who forced the defensive error just nine minutes in. More opportunities were available, including a chance for Rosa Kafaji to capitalize on a cross, while Putellas’ first half contribution was limited to a wayward shot.

Chants of “Who are ya?” rained down from the Manchester United supporters, who were witnessing their team struggle to create meaningful opportunities.

United itself is undergoing significant changes this summer, with former coach Marc Skinner no longer at the helm. Eva Olid took charge, greeted by applause from the North Terrace as she emerged for the kickoff.

After joining from Hearts, Olid promised an attacking style, but on the field, her team appeared caught between strategies, struggling to adjust after losing experienced players and integrating newcomers. Unlike other teams that bolstered their ranks, United remained stagnant, finishing the first half without registering a single shot (xG of 0.0).

The second half played out as expected for London City. They surged early, forcing Phallon Tullis-Joyce into action with attempts from Kafaji and Kennedy. Even with substitutions meant to change the game, the flow remained unaltered, although supporters’ excitement was tempered when Lucía Corrales was stretchered off in the 67th minute. This provided Man United with a chance to regroup, and by the 77th minute, they finally managed their first shot: Ella Toone mishit the ball, which led to Jess Park shooting wide.

Yet London City quickly regained their footing, with Van de Donk deftly finishing from a Delphine Cascarino cross. They showcased depth by substituting in Diani and Daniela Arques for the phenomenal Cascarino and Putellas. The Lionesses dominated the game’s final moments, while United failed to test the skills of London’s Elene Lete.

Both teams will find ways to improve following this match. United, now devoid of European matches, has an opportunity to unify their young squad, while London City will continue to find ways to leverage Putellas’ abilities in future games, with Earps and a full 90 minutes from Diani to look forward to.

Preseason predictions for London City varied, with suggestions of a third to seventh place finish. They were seen as an unknown entity. While they possess star power, the challenge lies in integrating these elite players and achieving consistent results against teams more familiar with competing for Champions League spots. Yet they bring not just talent, but cunning, resilience, and seasoned champions to the pitch, anchored by Putellas.

This match may not have been a definitive statement, but it was convincing enough to elicit a sense of unease among the established elite regarding London City’s rising threat.