Arsenal have secured the signing of Barcelona and World Cup-winning Spain forward Mariona Caldentey. The 28-year-old, who joined Barcelona in 2014, has had a distinguished career with the Catalan giants, winning six Liga F titles, three Champions Leagues, and six Spanish Cups. Caldentey made 302 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 114 goals and becoming the club’s fifth all-time top scorer.
Caldentey’s signing brings a wealth of experience to Arsenal. She was a key part of the Spain team that triumphed over England in the World Cup final in Australia last year, securing the nation’s first major women’s title. “I think what Arsenal are doing as a club is amazing – on and off the pitch,” said Caldentey. “I love the way we want to play as a team and I think there’s a strong mentality building here.”
Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall expressed his excitement over the new addition, stating, “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.” Caldentey’s international record is equally impressive, with 26 goals in 72 matches for Spain, also helping them to win the 2023-24 Nations League.
Caldentey’s arrival comes as Arsenal reshapes their squad, with the departure of Netherlands striker Vivianne Miedema, who was not offered a new contract, and is now linked with Manchester City. The Gunners are also reportedly interested in Aston Villa goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar and England midfielder Fran Kirby, indicating their ambition to strengthen the team further.
