Alexia Putellas hasn't arrived at the Women's Euro in her best personal moment. The captain of the national team and Barça is going through a romantic crisis that, according to those closest to her, is affecting her mood.
Everything suggests that the relationship with Olga Ríos, her partner for the past few years, is going through a definitive breakup. Although neither of them has released statements, the silence and distance they show on social media reinforce what is already being quietly discussed.
The footballer, focused on the national team's training camp, is trying to keep her professionalism and not let her personal life interfere with her performance on the field. However, those who know her well say that she isn't entirely comfortable, that she seems more serious and reserved than usual.
La RELACIÓ entre ALÈXIA PUTELLAS i OLGA RÍOS
A complicated summer off the field
The summer hasn't been easy for Alexia. Despite the titles with Barça and her contract renewal, on a personal level things haven't turned out as she desired.
The differences with her partner have become more pronounced and living together became unsustainable.
According to El Nacional, the couple had been dealing with problems for some time. Olga Ríos didn't look favorably on the footballer's circle. Alexia wasn't comfortable with certain changes in her partner's life either.
The situation became tense and both decided to put some distance between them.
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They no longer make plans together, don't follow each other on social media, and have stopped appearing together at public events. For many, there is no longer any doubt: the breakup has happened.
Alexia under the spotlight at the Euro
The media spotlight is relentless, especially when it comes to a star like Alexia Putellas. The Women's Euro is one of the year's biggest challenges for the Spanish national team. The captain, an undisputed reference, can't fail.
A serious injury kept her out of the Euro four years ago. It's the only title she's missing and she's giving her all to reach the final and win it. For now, Spain is in the semifinals and will face Germany in the fight for a spot in the final.
Despite the commotion, the national team's coaching staff say that Alexia is committed. That she works hard. That her focus is absolute.
But they also admit that her emotional state is more fragile than usual.
The group supports her. Her teammates respect her and know that she is a unique player. But they are also aware that if she isn't at one hundred percent, Spain could lose its great leader.
A brave and painful decision
Ending a relationship is never easy. Even less so with the countdown to the Euro underway. Alexia has chosen to make a clean break and prioritize her well-being.
Now it remains to be seen if, despite everything, she manages to shine as always and lead Spain to the top. To do so, she will have to play at the level that defines her as a two-time Ballon d'Or winner.