Laia Aleixandri's signing for Barça's women's team breaks up a consolidated pair. The one formed by Mapi León and Ingrid Hengen.
FC Barcelona Femenino is preparing for a significant loss: Ingrid Engen will leave the club at the end of the season. The Norwegian midfielder will not renew with the blaugrana team and everything indicates that her next destination will be Olympique de Lyon, according to Relevo.
Real Madrid showed interest in her signing
Engen, 27 years old, joined Barça in 2021 from Wolfsburg and has been a key piece in the midfield during her time at the Catalan club. However, the lack of minutes in important matches and the excess of competition in her position have led her to seek new challenges.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid also showed interest in the player. But Engen has chosen to join Lyon's project, one of the most awarded clubs in European women's soccer.
Engen's departure represents a challenge for Barça, which will use Laia Aleixandri in her position. Meanwhile, Lyon adds a quality addition to their squad, consolidating their position as one of the most competitive teams on the continent.
Her girlfriend Mapi León blocks her path in defense
Engen arrived at Barça as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe. However, she didn't find space in the midfield. The best midfielders in the world play at Barça: Alexia, Aitana, Patri Guijarro...
Mapi León's long-term injury last season allowed her to adapt to the center-back position. She performed excellently. But Mapi's return sent her back to the bench.
Her departure from Barça especially affects Mapi León, who is her sentimental partner. Will her departure affect their relationship?
The problem transcends the sports field and enters the sentimental one. Mapi León is precisely the player who blocks her path to a starting position at Barça. Their relationship will have to be long-distance starting next season.
She has three matches left with Barça
Meanwhile, Mapi León's contract with Barça ends in 2026. Will it be then when they reunite in Lyon?
Engen has played 1,665 minutes in the league this season in 24 matches and 19 starts. In the Champions League, she has played 484 minutes in 9 matches and 4 starts.
Engen will play her last league match with Barça at home this Sunday, against Athletic de Bilbao. Then the Champions League final against Arsenal in Lisbon. She will say goodbye on June 7 in the Copa de la Reina final held in Huesca.