Arsenal has signed Spain international Ona Batlle on a free transfer from Barcelona, as confirmed on July 10, 2026. Batlle, who is 27 years old, has joined the club on a four-year deal with an option for an additional year. The move comes after her successful stint at Barcelona, where she helped the team clinch the Champions League title in May.
Ona Batlle's Impressive Career
During her three years at Barcelona, Batlle made 114 appearances and played a crucial role in securing three consecutive league titles and two European cups. Notably, she was on the field during the Champions League final against Arsenal in 2025, where her team faced defeat.
Batlle's football journey began at Barcelona's academy before debuting for Madrid CFF in 2017. She later gained prominence at Levante and joined Manchester United in 2020, making 77 appearances before returning to Barcelona as an established international player.
Statements from Arsenal Management
Expressing her excitement, Batlle stated, "Arsenal is one of the biggest clubs in the world and I can't wait to feel the joy of playing in front of our supporters at Emirates Stadium alongside so many great players. I want to win trophies and I feel this is the right place to achieve that."
Arsenal's manager, Renee Slegers, expressed delight over the signing, stating, "She’s a hugely experienced full-back with strong attacking intent and great physical attributes. She’s a winner and we want to go for more wins together." Meanwhile, Clare Wheatley, Arsenal’s director of women’s football, emphasized Batlle's proven track record, noting, "She’s a proven winner with a hunger to add more trophies."
Strengthening Arsenal's Squad for the New Season
Batlle will wear the number 22 shirt at Arsenal. The club is looking to bounce back after a transitional year, having missed out on the Women’s Super League title despite their Champions League victory in 2025. Arsenal has made strategic signings, including England midfielder Georgia Stanway and Batlle, to strengthen their roster.
With Batlle joining the ranks alongside USA's Emily Fox, Arsenal now boasts two of the best full-backs globally. This move is part of Arsenal's revamped recruitment strategy, aiming for a steady evolution of talent ahead of the upcoming Women’s Super League season.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by BBC Football. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
