The BBC Women’s Footballer of the year 2025 Contender Patri Guijarro

Guijarro an unsung hero:

“I’m very flattered. I always say that I appreciate the players, the staff. And this is why I appreciate it within the team, that this is what I want.

On how he plays football:

“I started playing competitive league at the age of seven. Because I was very young with my father I had a lot of company with my father. Because of my brother, with my uncle I always wanted to be with the ball.”

On his time with Barcelona:

“I’m here now. These last few years have been incredible, especially in terms of results, how we’ve progressed and how we’ve achieved the goals we want.

“Also in the national team, now I am where I want to be; the performances I gave, I am happy to contribute to the club also in the national team. I am very happy and satisfied.”

To play the euro:

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

Former Barcelona director Maria TeIxidor, who set up the Spanish Players’ union with Guijarro: “Patri is a quiet force. There are people who do not need to speak loudly to make themselves and to make themselves important for the collective game. For loyalty, values, and showing good.”