When FC Barcelona Femení took the pitch at the Estadi Johan Cruyff for the 2026 Joan Gamper Trophy, all eyes were on Patri Guijarro. Stepping onto the field for her first official appearance as the team's first captain, the Mallorcan midfielder delivered a memorable pre-match speech to the supporters before orchestrating a 3-1 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion Women with two decisive assists. Guijarro was awarded the Star Player Award for her performance, making her the first player to win the honour twice, having previously claimed it in the 2022/23 season.

From Mallorca to La Masia Pioneer

Born in Palma de Mallorca in 1998, Guijarro began playing football at a young age with her father before joining her school team alongside friends at age seven. Her early potential became clear during her time at UD Collerense, which earned her a transfer to FC Barcelona in 2015 at just 17 years old. Upon moving to Catalonia, Guijarro carved out a special place in club history by becoming the first female first-team player to complete her high school studies (Bachillerato) at La Masia, paving the way for future generations of women's football prospects.

Tactical Vision and Key Trophies

Guijarro's intelligence and tactical composure in central midfield have made her an indispensable engine for Barcelona. Over her decade-long career in Barcelona, she has accumulated an extraordinary collection of silverware, including multiple UEFA Women's Champions League titles, domestic Liga F crowns, Copa de la Reina trophies, and Supercopa de España Femenina victories. Her influence was key to Barcelona completing a historic Quadruple.

Leadership and Recognition

Now wearing the captain's armband alongside Marta Torrejón, Irene Paredes, Aitana Bonmatí, and Caroline Graham, Guijarro embodies the values and maturity of the dressing room. Expressing her pride before the Gamper match, she addressed the fans as captain, highlighting the unity and collective spirit of the group. As she leads Barcelona into a new season, her nomination for the 2026 Ballon d'Or stands as a deserving acknowledgment of her status as one of global football's most complete midfielders.