Arsenal Women’s manager, Jonas Eidevall, has addressed the swirling rumours regarding Lia Walti’s potential departure from the club.

WOLFSBURG, GERMANY - APRIL 23: Lia Wälti of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Women's Champions League semifinal 1st leg match between VfL Wolfsburg and Arsenal at Volkswagen Arena on April 23, 2023 in Wolfsburg, Germany. (Photo by Martin Rose/Getty Images)
WOLFSBURG, GERMANY – APRIL 23: Lia Wälti of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal 1st leg match between VfL Wolfsburg and Arsenal at Volkswagen Arena on April 23, 2023 in Wolfsburg, Germany. (Photo by Martin Rose/Getty Images)

In a firm statement, Eidevall categorically dismissed the speculation of Walti leaving, emphasising the club’s satisfaction with her performance and commitment.

“I would say that the Lia Walti rumour that she could potentially be leaving definitely falls under the category of no truth whatsoever,” Eidevall said. He further expressed his understanding of the supporters’ concerns when encountering such reports but reassured them of Walti’s happiness at Arsenal.

“I think she’s very happy at the club as well,” he added. “So, I understand it’s hard for supporters when you read things like that to understand if there is truth in it or not. But this one here, definitely not.”

Lia Walti, an integral part of Arsenal since 2018, has made 129 appearances and contributed significantly to the team’s successes, including the FA WSL title in the 2018–19 season and the FA Women’s League Cup in the 2022–23 season.

Her individual achievements, such as being named in the PFA Team of the Year and winning the Swiss Female National Player award, underscore her importance to the team.

Despite recent reports linking Walti to Real Madrid, she has also affirmed her contentment at Arsenal, stating, “I am very satisfied and happy at Arsenal. I play in a top club and still have three years left on my contract there.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal are also celebrating the renewal of Manuela Zinsberger’s contract.

Eidevall expressed his delight at securing the future of their key goalkeeper, praising her footballing abilities and leadership qualities.

“I think Manu has been very good for us, both on the pitch with her footballing abilities, but also as a leader in the group and as a person setting really high standards, both for herself and for the team,” Eidevall said.

Looking ahead, Arsenal’s midfield is expected to undergo changes sooner rather than later, with the team’s experienced players such as Kim Little and Lia Walti advancing in their careers.

However, the club has been proactive in nurturing younger talents like Victoria Pelova, Kyra Conney-Cross, and Kathrine Kühl, ensuring a smooth transition and sustained competitiveness in the midfield.