Reasons for her return Wälti: Missed the appreciation as a footballer

Lia Wälti has returned to England after just one season with Italian club Juventus, signing with Brighton & Hove Albion in the Women’s Super League. The 33-year-old Swiss national captain, who previously spent seven years with Arsenal, expressed her reasons for leaving Italy in a recent interview with the BBC. She stated she missed the appreciation she felt as a footballer in England and wanted to experience the full support that came with playing in the country. “I have missed the appreciation I felt as a footballer,” Wälti said. “I wanted to feel again that we enjoy the full support.” Wälti’s brief stint in the Serie A was marked by her desire to gain new experiences while maintaining a positive outlook on the league. However, she acknowledged that the standard of play in the English league is unmatched. “The standard of the English league is incomparable to any other league,” she noted. This sentiment reflects both her personal preference and professional judgment regarding the quality of competition available in England. The atmosphere in English stadiums also played a role in her decision to return. Wälti highlighted that there was little fan culture in Italy, even at Juventus, which contrasted sharply with the vibrant supporter communities she had encountered in England. “There is no fan culture in Italy, not even at Juventus,” she explained. This lack of engagement from fans left her feeling disconnected during her time abroad. Upon joining Brighton & Hove Albion, Wälti quickly sensed the difference. From the moment she arrived, she felt a sense of belonging within a club that values women’s football and invests in its development. “From the very first moment, I felt that I was in the right place,” she said. “In a club that sees women’s football as important and continues to invest in it.” This environment, she believes, aligns with her goals as a player and as a representative of the sport. Brighton & Hove Albion has welcomed Wälti back into their squad, recognizing her experience and leadership qualities. As a former captain of the Swiss national team, her presence adds depth to the team’s midfield and provides mentorship to younger players. Her return signals a commitment to the growth of women’s football in England, particularly in terms of visibility and investment. The transition back to England marks another chapter in Wälti’s career, one that blends nostalgia with ambition. Having played for some of the top clubs in Europe, including Arsenal and now Brighton, she brings a wealth of knowledge and resilience to the table. Her comments suggest that while she respects the challenges and opportunities presented by the Italian league, her heart remains rooted in the traditions and passion of English football. As the Women’s Super League continues to evolve, players like Wälti serve as ambassadors for the sport’s growing influence. With her return, Brighton & Hove Albion reinforces its position as a forward-thinking club in women’s football, ready to embrace the future while honoring the past.