Alexia Putellas vows to bounce back after her Euro 2022 dream is left in tatters

World player of the year Alexia Putellas has vowed to bounce back after her Euro 2022 dream was shattered by injury.

The Spain midfielder, expected to be one of the stars of the tournament in England, will miss the event after suffering cruciate ligament damage in training on Tuesday.

Putellas won the Ballon d’Or in 2021 after helping Barcelona win the Champions League and the Primera Division.

“Now starts a new stage. Since I can remember, I have never been more than five days without kicking a ball, training or competing.

“It was and is my passion and this process will be a challenge but I am confident I can recover, get back on track and finish what I started.”

Real Sociedad’s Amaiur Sarriegi has been called up as Putellas’ replacement. Spain start their campaign when they face Finland in Milton Keynes on Friday.

Putellas said: “Without doubt, I will be another fan now and I will live, shout and feel every moment from the stands.”

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