WEURO 2025 – Mariona Caldentey, Spain’s makeshift gem assuming leadership responsibilities
Mariona is one of the five captains picked by Tomé, encouraged to create a core leadership group within a squad that is stacked with world class talent in every position.
She joins Olga Carmona, Irene Paredes, Aitana Bonmatí, and Alexia Putellas as the team’s leadership quintet. That being said, the Mallorcan does not see it as a huge change to the previous dynamic that led La Roja to World Cup glory.
“I don’t think that the role has changed so much to say that you are captain,” Mariona explained. “There are many experienced and influential players that the team will listen to. The two main captains are Irene [Paredes] and Alexia [Putellas], they are the best role models and captains that we could have. When they speak, everyone goes quiet.”
Mariona comes into the continental tournament already a European champion at club level. Having left FC Barcelona after a decade for Arsenal last year, she helped the London side to UEFA Women’s Champions League glory for the first time since 2007.
A lot has changed in women’s football since then, especially for the Spanish national team, who have gone through immense transformation.