I missed being valued as a footballer - Walti

Brighton midfielder Lia Walti expressed her longing for the feeling of being valued as a footballer and craved a return to the Women's Super League (WSL). After a brief stint at Juventus, the Switzerland captain was dismayed by the stark differences between the WSL and Italian football. Walti had spent seven years at Arsenal, winning four major trophies, before moving to Italy in pursuit of new challenges.

However, she soon realized the extreme professional differences between the two leagues. Upon returning to England, Walti joined Brighton, an ambitious WSL club, for an undisclosed fee. She highlighted the significant difference in standards, noting that the WSL's professionalism and fan culture were unparalleled. Walti also pointed out the lack of investment in pitch quality and TV coverage in other countries, which hinders the growth of women's football.

She emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure and facilities to create a conducive environment for the sport's development. Walti expressed her frustration at the lack of recognition and support for players who spoke up about these issues, particularly in Italy. She believes that the right environment and investment can help unlock the potential of countless talented women footballers who are currently overlooked.

Walti is confident that Brighton shares her passion for progress and is committed to providing a quality environment for women's football. With a purpose-built stadium under construction and a track record of success, she believes she has found a club that genuinely cares about the future of women's football.