London City Lionesses have secured the long-term future of defender Jana Fernandez, with the Spanish right-back signing a new contract that will keep her at the club until 2029.
Fernandez, 24, arrived at London City a year ago following a move from Barcelona and has quickly established herself as one of the side's most important players under head coach Eder Maestre. She featured in every Women's Super League fixture last season as the club finished sixth in their first campaign in England's top division, a creditable result for a newly promoted side. Her consistent displays at right-back were recognised by supporters, who named her the club's player of the season.
Expressing her delight at extending her stay, Fernandez reflected on the ambitions that drew her to England in the first place. "I'm absolutely delighted to sign a new contract here at London City," she said. "When I arrived in England one year ago I joined this club with dreams for the future."
She went on to describe the sense of momentum she feels is building at the club. "Potential, excitement and progress are three words I associate with the club and I'm pleased to commit my future. I feel at home and settled here," Fernandez said. "We are building something special together, as players, staff and fans, and I can't wait to play my part."
Before her switch to London, Fernandez spent her entire career at Barcelona, coming through the club's academy system and going on to enjoy considerable success in Spain and Europe. She won the domestic league title five times with the Catalan giants and lifted the Champions League on three occasions, alongside three Copa de la Reina triumphs. Her pedigree extends to the international stage as well, having been part of the Spain squad that reached the final of Euro 2025, where they were beaten by hosts England.
Fernandez's decision to stay comes at a significant moment for London City, who have been steadily strengthening their squad under the ownership of American billionaire Michele Kang. The club has made headline signings in recent months, including two of Fernandez's former Barcelona team-mates: two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and defender Mapi Leon. Both arrivals underline the scale of London City's ambitions as they look to challenge the WSL's established elite and push for Champions League qualification.
While attracting marquee names has been part of the club's strategy, retaining existing talent has been viewed as equally important to sustaining progress. Fernandez's new deal follows on from England winger Freya Godfrey's recent decision to extend her own contract, giving London City a settled core of players to build around as they aim to break into the division's traditional top three.
With Fernandez now tied down for the long term, London City will hope her experience and versatility continue to underpin their rise in the WSL, as the club looks to translate summer investment and squad depth into tangible progress on the pitch in the seasons ahead.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.