Biography:
Irene Paredes Hernández, born on 4 July 1991, is a Spanish professional footballer who has made a significant impact on the sport as a centre-back for both club and country. Her talent, leadership, and dedication have earned her a place among the top footballers in the world.
Paredes’ football journey began in the Basque Country, where she was born in Legazpi, Gipuzkoa. In 2007, she joined local side Zarautz and quickly showcased her skills on the field. A year later, she made a move that would shape her career by signing with Real Sociedad.
On 5 October 2008, Paredes made her senior debut for Real Sociedad in a league game against Málaga. Her strong performances and defensive prowess soon caught the attention of the footballing world. After three successful seasons with Real Sociedad, Paredes took another significant step in her career by signing with Basque rivals Athletic Bilbao in 2011.
During her time at Athletic Bilbao, Paredes continued to shine as a formidable defender. In her final season with the club in 2015-2016, she played a crucial role in helping Athletic Bilbao secure the Primera División title. Additionally, she won three Copa Euskal Herria trophies, prevailing against her former club, Real Sociedad, in 2011, 2013, and 2015.
Paredes’ talents did not go unnoticed on the international stage either. She made her mark as a key player for the Spain national team, representing her country with distinction. Her performances earned her a spot in the UEFA Women’s Champions League season with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where she reached the final in her first season with the club, narrowly losing to Lyon in a penalty shootout.
On 31 May 2018, Paredes celebrated her first trophy with PSG as they emerged victorious in the final of the 2018 Coupe de France Féminine, defeating Lyon 1-0. Her leadership qualities were recognized, and she was named captain of PSG before the start of the 2018-2019 season. Paredes extended her contract with PSG in May 2019, committing to the club until 2021.
Paredes’ tenure at PSG saw her lead the team to numerous achievements and milestones. She played in her first final as captain in the inaugural Trophée des Championnes, despite suffering a defeat in a penalty shootout against Lyon. In a historic feat, on 4 June 2021, Paredes led PSG to their first-ever league title, breaking Lyon’s 14-year streak of consecutive titles. She also guided PSG to the semifinals of the Women’s Champions League, narrowly losing to eventual champions Barcelona.
Continuing her illustrious career, Paredes signed a two-year contract with Barcelona on 8 July 2021. She made an immediate impact, scoring her first goal for Barcelona in a 5-0 victory against Sporting Huelva on 17 October. Paredes also displayed her prowess in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, scoring her first goal in the competition for Barcelona against 1899 Hoffenheim in a 5-0 group stage triumph.
Paredes’ influence on the sport extends beyond her remarkable performances on the field. She serves as a role model for aspiring female footballers, embodying strength, determination, and skill. Her success and perseverance inspire young players to pursue their dreams and break barriers in women’s football.
Awards:
– Primera División title with Athletic Bilbao (2015-2016)
– Coupe de France Féminine winner with PSG (2018)
– Trophée des Championnes finalist with PSG (2019)
– French Division 1 Féminine title with PSG (2020-2021)
– Supercopa de España Femenina winner with Barcelona (2022)
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