Clara Serrajordi: Barcelona’s Rising Star in Midfield
Barcelona has a new star shining bright in its midfield: Clara Serrajordi. At just 18 years old, she’s already made waves by debuting for the first team at 17, starting in the Champions League final, and taking on the challenge of replacing the legendary Alexia Putellas this season.
A passionate chess player, Serrajordi finds a mental escape in the game and draws parallels between chess and football. Like a skilled chess player, she anticipates her next move on the pitch, showcasing the traits of a true La Masia-trained midfielder who knows how to read the game and support her teammates.
Scouted at the tender age of 11 while playing for CE Llerona, she recalls being in awe of Barcelona’s youth players. "I thought to myself, those girls are going to be my teammates, and I didn’t believe it at first. I kept telling myself, ‘I’m going to be with the best,’" she shared in an interview.
At 18, it’s challenging to foresee the future, especially in a club known for producing talent. Although Barcelona’s academy offers more opportunities than most elite clubs, the odds aren’t always in their favor. A 2022 study revealed that only 2-5% of male La Masia players make it to the first team, and the statistics for women may be similar.
Serrajordi reflects on her journey, saying, "When I first signed, I never imagined I would achieve everything I have." With a Champions League title, two league trophies, two Copa de Reinas, and a Supercopa already under her belt, she acknowledges the dream-like quality of reaching the first team.
Last season, she started 19 out of 26 league matches, contributing a goal and three assists. Although an arm fracture sidelined her for a month this season, she has already accumulated 311 minutes of playtime.
"I didn’t think I’d make it to the first team until I started training with them more regularly," she recalls. "When I started being called up for matchday squads, I thought, ‘I’m really here and can actually make it.’"
In May, coach Pere Romeu entrusted Serrajordi with a starting spot in the Champions League final against OL Lyonnes, where Barcelona triumphed 4-0. "I didn’t expect to start. When I found out, I just thought, ‘We need to go all out and fight for this title,’" she said, cherishing the moment as a significant milestone in her debut year.
Comparisons between Serrajordi and Putellas are inevitable, both in style and presence on the field. With Putellas moving to London City Lionesses, Serrajordi has stepped into her role seamlessly, having been mentored by the Barcelona captain herself.
"Alexia is an undisputed Barça player," Serrajordi acknowledges. "No one can replicate what she has done for the club. But we share a similar playing style, and I aspire to reach her level, even though I still have much to learn."
Barcelona thrives on a blend of youth and experience, which has been crucial to their success. With various departures and injuries, the club has leaned on academy graduates like Serrajordi to fill significant gaps.
"I always followed the first team and admired all the players," she says of playing alongside her idols. "From the moment I joined, they welcomed me and the other younger players. That support helps us thrive on the pitch.
"Being surrounded by the best makes it easier to shine. People might say I play well, but I wouldn’t be able to do it without teammates like Patri, Aitana, and Alexia beside me."
This young midfielder is not just filling a gap; she’s carving out her own legacy at Barcelona, and the football world will be watching closely.
