Player Profile: Lia Wälti

Wälti joined Arsenal in July 2018 and immediately established himself as a key midfield pillar. Despite missing the majority of the season due to an LCL injury, she was selected to the PFA Team of the Year for her contribution to the team's victory in the 2018–19 WSL. She made a heartfelt decision to extend her contract in 2023, citing the women's game's upward trajectory, Arsenal's booming fan base, and club culture as the main reasons. 

📸via www.skysports.com

Since making her debut for the Swiss senior national team in August 2011, Wälti has amassed over 125 caps and, as of April 2025, five goals. She took over as captain in 2019 after Lara Dickenmann retired, and she has guided Switzerland through important competitions, including hosting the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 for the first time.

Wälti, who is affectionately known as "Snake Hips," is well-known for her poise, tight-space control, and superb placement. She is the defining midfield maestro for both club and country thanks to her strategic acumen. Her leadership goes beyond her on-field accomplishments; her own experience with illness and injury has made her a representation of mental toughness and resiliency. 

Together with her sister Meret Wälti, Lia Wälti co-wrote the children's book "Lia's Football Journey" to encourage young ladies to follow their aspirations in both life and football. The novel chronicles Lia's transformation from a little Swiss girl to a professional football player for Arsenal and the Swiss national team. It is partially biographical and mostly fictitious. It seeks to establish female role models and inspire kids—particularly girls—to play football and have faith in their own abilities.

The development of women's football is best illustrated by Lia Wälti's journey from a small Swiss town to becoming her country's captain. Whether she is on the pitch, talking about equity, or interacting with fans outside of football, she combines tactical skill with unshakeable leadership and an inspiring charisma. Her narrative strikes a chord because it is one of fervour, tenacity, and change.