BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 contender Patri Guijarro

Guijarro on being an unsung hero:

“I am very flattered. I’ve always said that I feel very valued by players, by staff. And for me that’s the ultimate. Moreover, that they also transmit it to you. It is a reason to be happy because that means that I help them – that I contribute positive things within the team, which is what I want. It is a great compliment.”

On how she got into playing football:

“I started playing in league competition at the age of seven. Since I was very young with my father I played a lot in the backyard. In the park I always went with my father to play, with his brother, with my uncle. Since I was a little girl I have always liked to be with the ball.”

On her time with Barcelona:

“I’ve been here 10 years now. These last few years have been incredible, especially in terms of results, how we are evolving and how we are achieving the objectives we want.

“With the national team as well, now I am where I want to be; the performances I am giving, I am happy to contribute what I am to the club as well as to the national team. I am very happy and very content.”

On playing at the Euros:

“That is what I’ve always wanted – to play for the national team; defend this jersey, your home. That’s what any footballer wants to do, to reach to the maximum.”

Former Barcelona director Maria Teixidor, who set up Spain’s players’ union FutPro alongside Guijarro: “Patri is a silent force. There are people that don’t need to speak loudly to make themselves present and to make themselves important for the collective game. For Patri, loyalty, values, the good and purpose are important and she has shown that on and off the pitch. “