I missed being valued as a footballer - Walti

WHAT HAPPENED
Switzerland captain Lia Walti has left Juventus after one season and returned to the English top flight, signing for Brighton this summer for an undisclosed fee. Speaking to BBC Sport, Walti said she had "missed the feeling of being valued as a footballer" and explained that the professional environment she experienced in England was markedly different from what she found in Italy.

Walti made clear she does not want to single out the Italian league negatively but stressed that the standards and support structures in the Women's Super League (WSL) are on another level compared with many other countries.

KEY CONTEXT
- Walti spent seven years at Arsenal, making 183 appearances and winning multiple major trophies, including the Champions League and WSL titles.
- She moved to Juventus the previous summer seeking a new challenge but stayed only one season before rejoining the WSL with Brighton.
- The 33-year-old captained Switzerland at Euro 2025 on home soil and has more than 100 caps for her country.

WHY IT MATTERS
Walti’s comments underline a wider gulf in professional conditions across women’s football as observed by an experienced international and club player. Her comparison highlights differences in matchday atmosphere, broadcast coverage and basic infrastructure such as pitch quality — areas she says affect how the game is played, watched and promoted. For a player who has been part of the WSL’s growth, her perspective reinforces concerns about inconsistent standards for female players and fans in different leagues.

WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- How Walti integrates into Brighton’s squad and whether her return to the WSL alters her on-field role and visibility.
- Whether her public assessment prompts further discussion among clubs, leagues and broadcasters about investment in facilities, coverage and fan engagement elsewhere.

KEY FACTS
- Walti signed for Brighton this summer from Juventus for an undisclosed fee.
- She spent seven years at Arsenal, making 183 appearances and winning major trophies including the Champions League and WSL titles.
- The 33-year-old captained Switzerland at Euro 2025 and has over 100 international appearances.
- Walti criticised aspects of football outside England, citing low attendances in Italy, poor TV coverage and substandard pitch conditions.
- She described the WSL’s professional environment and fan culture as not comparable with many other leagues.