Lia Walti expressed her disappointment at the lack of support and professionalism in Italian women's football compared to the Women's Super League, highlighting her return to Brighton as a positive step.

Lia Walti Returns to Brighton, Expresses Disappointment Against

According to Bbc.

Background

Lia Walti, previously successful at Arsenal, has now returned to Brighton after one season at Juventus. As captain of the Swiss national team, her return to the WSL shows a desire to play in a more supportive environment, which she hopes will improve the quality of play and experience for herself and her Brighton teammates.

Why this is important

Lia Walti's return to Brighton signals the importance of support and professionalism in women's football, especially in leagues such as the Women's Super League (WSL) which has been proven to be more supportive of player development. Walti's disappointment with the experience at Juventus reflects the challenges faced by many female footballers in Italy, where the fan culture and facilities often do not compare to those in England.

Main Points

Lia Walti Returns to Brighton, Expresses Disappointment Against.
Lia Walti expressed her disappointment at the lack of support and professionalism in Italian women's football compared to the Women's Super League, highlighting her return to Brighton as a positive step.
Women's Super League: Brighton midfielder Lia Walti 'missed feeling of being valued' - BBC Sport.

Lia Walti, Brighton midfielder, recently expressed her disappointment with the lack of appreciation she received as a footballer while playing at Juventus. In an interview, Walti stated that she "missed the feeling of being appreciated" and was eager to return to the Women's Super League (WSL) after one season in Italy.

As captain of the Swiss national team, Walti previously spent seven years at Arsenal, where he won four major trophies, including the Champions League and WSL titles. His decision to move to Italy last summer was in search of a new challenge, but he quickly noticed a stark difference in professionalism.

"That's a very big difference. It's difficult to talk about this. I don't want to speak too negatively about the Italian league, but that's the reality," said Walti. She added, "The standard of football in England, particularly in the WSL, cannot be compared to other leagues. I feel sad and disappointed to see that many female players overseas do not have the same opportunities or standards in a professional environment."

Walti explained that the football culture in the WSL is very different. In England, he felt full fan support and access to good facilities, while at Juventus, he felt there was no real fan culture. "We don't have the same fan culture - not only at Juve, but in general in Italy. Every game feels lonely."

At the age of 33, Walti has made 183 appearances for Arsenal and has become a key player for the club. He has also led the Swiss national team at Euro 2025. Walti realizes that the growth of women's football in England is the result of generations bringing change and he hopes the same can happen in other countries. "I think we need to bring this game to the people. We have to force people to watch," said Walti.

However, he also noted that the lack of media coverage and quality of the field is a major problem in many countries. "The quality of the pitch is very poor. In many countries, you play on poor artificial pitches or unsuitable natural grass. It's very difficult to play good football."

Walti feels fortunate to have experienced professionalism in England and is committed to driving change in women's football around the world. "A lot of talent in women's football is lost because they are in bad environments where no one sees them or they don't have the opportunity to reach their potential. I try to make an impact," she said.

After experiencing his experience in Italy, Walti felt confident that Brighton was a club that could provide him with a quality environment. Brighton recently announced plans to build Europe's first women's football stadium at a cost of £75-80 million. The club has also invested in training facilities and reached the Women's FA Cup final for the first time. Walti believes she has joined a club that "cares" about women's football.

"After the experience in Italy, I know more about what I want, or don't want. I had great confidence in Brighton before we had talks because I have seen what this club does. I have only heard positive things from other players about this club," he added. Walti believes that Brighton is the right place to continue her career and contribute to the development of women's football.

What happened next

With Walti returning to Brighton, it is hoped that he can contribute significantly to the club's efforts to compete in the WSL. In addition, her experience in Italy can be a valuable lesson for the development of women's football throughout the world, including in Italy, to improve standards and support for female players.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Lia Walti reveal about her experience in Italy?

Lia Walti expressed her disappointment with the lack of appreciation she received as a footballer while playing at Juventus.

Why does Lia Walti want to return to Brighton?

Walti wants to return to the Women's Super League (WSL) because she misses the feeling of being valued and realizing the difference in professionalism in Italy.

Who confirmed their disappointment with women's football in Italy?

Lia Walti confirmed her disappointment through an interview.

What difference does Walti feel between the WSL and the league in Italy?

Walti feels there is a huge difference in fan support and facilities, and states that the standard of football in England cannot be compared with other leagues.

What was the reason Walti moved to Italy before?

Walti moved to Italy last summer in search of a new challenge.

Lia Walti Returns to Brighton, Expresses Disappointment with