Lia Walti, the 33-year-old Switzerland captain, returned to the Women's Super League this summer after one disappointing season at Juventus. The midfielder, who made 183 appearances for Arsenal and won four major trophies including the Champions League, said she "missed the feeling of being valued as a footballer" in Italy. She described the differences in professionalism as "extreme," citing empty stadiums, poor broadcast coverage, and substandard pitches. Walti emphasized that the WSL's standards "are not the norm" globally, noting that many players abroad lack proper professional environments.

Walti highlighted systemic issues hindering women's football growth worldwide, from inadequate pitch quality to insufficient TV coverage that fails to capture the game's speed and tactics. She stressed that investment must precede returns, a patience many countries lack. Having witnessed England's transformation from semi-professional conditions to full stadiums, Walti feels frustrated seeing talent lost in poor environments where "nobody sees them."

The midfielder chose Brighton for their demonstrated commitment, including an £8.5m training facility and plans for Europe's first purpose-built women's stadium costing £75-80m. Under manager Dario Vidosic, the club reached their first Women's FA Cup final and targets a top-three finish. Walti said player feedback confirmed Brighton "cares about women's football, that invests in women's football, and who has the right people in place."