When Arsenal caused a surprise by beating Barcelona to win the Women’s Champions League last year, there were many players who deserved to be highlighted. Whether it was the spectacular turnaround orchestrated by coach Renee Slegers, who went from interim to starting status, the offensive exploits of Alessia Russo or the timeless class of Kim Little in midfield, the reasons for this success were numerous. However, the impact of Mariona Caldentey was particularly impressive.
Free arrival from Barça before the 2024-2025 season, the Spanish international quickly established herself as one of the star recruits of the season thanks to an exceptional first campaign in England. She finished second top scorer in the Women’s Super League and third in the Champions League, before being crowned National Player of the Year and finishing second in the Ballon d’Or, behind three-time winner Aitana Bonmati.
However, observers who followed his ten years at Barcelona were not surprised. Less exposed in the media, it then played in the shadow of a particularly star-studded Catalan squad. Her playing intelligence, her sharp technique and her ability to influence matches had already convinced informed observers, assets that she transposed to Arsenal to finally reap the much-deserved recognition.
At the dawn of its second London season, it has made less headlines. A decline due mainly to his new, more discreet role in Slegers’ system, and not to a drop in level.
As the Gunners enter the decisive phase of their Champions League title defense, the stage is set for Caldentey to remind everyone why so many observers felt she deserved the Ballon d’Or last year.
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