Lia Walti, the Brighton midfielder and Switzerland captain, expressed her longing for the sense of value she experienced at Arsenal after a challenging season with Juventus. In a candid interview, she revealed that during her seven-year tenure with Arsenal, she helped secure four major trophies, including the Champions League and WSL titles.

After moving to Italy last summer, Walti quickly recognized the stark differences in professionalism, stating that the standards in the Women's Super League (WSL) are unparalleled. She noted:

"It's such a huge difference... football in England, in the WSL, has a standard which is not comparable with any other league."

Her return to the WSL last month came after realizing that many women players abroad lack opportunities and professional environments. Walti emphasized the absence of fan culture in Italy, contrasting it with the vibrant atmospheres she experienced in England:

"When you have been part of that growth in England... even stadiums that are really small, they are exciting to play in."

At 33 years old, Walti has made 183 appearances for Arsenal and captained Switzerland at Euro 2025. She believes that the growth of women's football in England serves as a model for others, advocating for better coverage and facilities globally:

• Pitch quality is a significant issue in many countries, affecting the quality of play.
• Improved media coverage is essential for enhancing viewer experience.

Walti's insights shed light on the challenges facing women's football worldwide, calling for investment and patience to foster growth and development.