Arsenal have confirmed the acquisition of Mariona Caldentey, Spain’s World Cup-winning attacker, on a free transfer after she left Barcelona.
Caldentey enters with plenty of pedigree, having decided to take on a new challenge following ten trophy-laden years in Catalunya. During that decade, the 28-year-old won 25 trophies, including three Champions League titles, and scored 114 goals in 302 games, becoming her the club’s seventh all-time leading goal scorer.
Caldentey’s signing is a big boost for an Arsenal frontline that lost Vivianne Miedema last month. The forward, who has scored more Women’s Super League goals than any player in history, left on a free at the expiration of her contract and looks set to set for title rivals Manchester City. However, despite criticism for the decision not to renew Miedema’s deal, the Gunners have at least recruited a top class replacement who can play as a striker, out wide or in a deeper role.
Speaking upon the announcement of the deal, Caldentey said: “I’m so happy to be here. This is the right time for a new challenge for me and Arsenal is the perfect place. I think what Arsenal are doing as a club is amazing – on and off the pitch. I love the way we want to play as a team and I think there’s a strong mentality building here. It’s been incredible to see what the club has done away from the pitch, with supporters following the team everywhere and lots of records being broken. I can’t wait to get started and help the team win trophies and entertain our supporters.”
Head coach Jonas Eidevall added: “Mariona is a world-class forward and we are delighted to bring her to Arsenal. She’s a winner with proven experience of excelling on the biggest stage, which is exactly where we aim to be at this club. We believe Mariona will be a superb addition to our squad here at Arsenal, as we prepare for an exciting new season together.”
As well as being a star at club level, Caldentey has also thrived on the international stage. She was the star of the show as Spain won the Nations League in February, having been a key player in last summer’s World Cup triumph, and will be crucial to La Roja’s chances of a gold medal at the Olympic Games, which begin later this month.
WHAT NEXT FOR CALDENTEY AND ARSENAL?
The Spain forward might not be the only signing Arsenal secure from Barcelona this summer, either. The Gunners have been strongly linked with a move for Lionesses midfielder Keira Walsh, though a deal will be tricky given the England star still has a year left on her contract and Barca do not wish to sell.
