Arsenal - Lia Walti
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal Women’s long-serving midfielder and Switzerland captain, Lia Walti, has completed a move to Italian champions Juventus on Women’s Super League (WSL) transfer deadline day.
The 32-year-old departs North London after seven years at the club, during which she became a cornerstone of the Gunners’ midfield. Since joining from Turbine Potsdam in 2018, Walti made 183 appearances, helping Arsenal secure the 2019 WSL title, two FA Women’s League Cups, and last season’s UEFA Women’s Champions League crown.
Known for her composure on the ball, precise passing, and leadership, Walti admitted the decision to leave was far from easy. In an emotional video message to supporters, she said: “This is, without any doubt, one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to take in my life to leave this football club.
READ MORE: Chloe Kelly excited ahead of Arsenal WSL season
“I’m really thankful because I think I made relationships for life, and I will definitely be back here. Arsenal always allowed me to be the person I am. I’m really sad to leave, but it means it has been a place where I was really, really happy. Thank you to the fans; you made us feel unstoppable.”
Lia Walti
Arsenal midfielder Lia Walti completes move to Juventus (Image credit: Getty Images)
Her minutes had recently been reduced due to the emergence of younger talents such as Kyra Cooney-Cross and Mariona Caldentey, prompting the Swiss international to pursue a new challenge in Serie A. Juventus, whose domestic transfer window remains open until September 10, quickly moved to secure her signature, confirming she has signed a contract until June 30, 2027.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
With more than 100 international caps and the experience of captaining Switzerland at the 2025 Women’s Euros, Wälti is expected to play a central role in Juventus’ push for domestic and European success.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are already looking to reinforce their midfield following Walti’s exit, with Eintracht Frankfurt star Geraldine Reuteler identified as a top target. Negotiations are ongoing, with the Gunners hopeful of sealing a deal before the WSL window closes.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal confirm goalkeeper Naomi Williams move to Bristol City