Ona Batlle has explained why she chose to return to the Women’s Super League and join Arsenal during the peak years of her career.
The Spaniard also revealed her desire to win the one major domestic honour missing from her collection.
Batlle joined Arsenal on a free transfer after leaving Barcelona earlier this month. The 27-year-old arrives with three Liga F titles, four Copa de la Reina trophies, two Champions Leagues and a World Cup.
Speaking in an interview with Arseblog News, Batlle admitted she had not expected to leave Barcelona again when she returned to her hometown club in 2023.
However, the growth and competitiveness of the English league helped persuade her to accept a new challenge.
“I am at a good age to come back to the WSL,” Batlle said.
Ona Batlle interview outlines Arsenal title ambition
Batlle won the league in each of her three seasons with Barcelona. She believes consistency will decide Arsenal’s title challenge because teams must find ways to win even when performances fall below their usual level.
The Spain international can play on either side of defence. She has not yet held detailed talks with Renée Slegers about her position, but is prepared to operate at right-back or left-back.
That flexibility became especially valuable after Katie McCabe’s departure. ReadArsenal previously examined how Batlle’s arrival strengthened Arsenal’s options on both flanks while adding another experienced winner to Slegers’ squad.
Batlle will also reunite with former teammates Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo. She praised Russo’s development since their time together at Manchester United and wants to help the striker score more goals.
The Emirates Stadium crowds also influenced her decision. Batlle highlighted Arsenal’s connection with supporters and hopes to experience sold-out home matches during the new campaign.
The Ona Batlle interview underlined the ambition behind the move. She has already won the biggest honours with Barcelona and Spain, but joining Arsenal gives her the opportunity to chase a first WSL title.
