Lia Walti departs Arsenal ahead of WSL season starting | OneFootball

Lia Walti has left Arsenal to join Juventus on a permanent transfer, after seven years in the Women’s Super League with the Gunners.

The 32-year-old arrived in north London from German side Turbine Potsdam in July 2018 and made 183 appearances in an Arsenal shirt – she was a part of sides that won the WSL, two League Cups and the recent Champions League.

The Swiss midfielder captained her country at a home Euros this summer, making history as she guided Switzerland to a quarter-final for the first time, where they bowed out to Spain.

Director of Women’s Football Clare Wheatley said: “Lia has been an important part of our recent history at Arsenal. One of the most talented midfielders of her generation, Lia has brought joy to our supporters and worn our jersey with class. We wish Lia every success after her seven special years with us, and she will always be welcome back in north London.”

In a video posted on Arsenal Women’s X page, Walti said: “This is without doubt one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to take in my life. Arsenal is more than a football club for me – it became my home, my second family, my safe place, a place I always wanted to return to. All I have in my heart now is beautiful memories I will always want to return to.

“When I came here seven years ago it was incredible but it was a very easy choice to come here. Looking back at my seven years, I am really proud and I am thankful for all the memories. It is something as a kid you dream about.

“One of my biggest dreams was always to win the Champions League and my biggest dream was to win it with Arsenal – that was my last game with Arsenal so it couldn’t end any better.”