Arsenal are delighted to confirm the signing of Spanish international defender Ona Batlle on a permanent transfer.
The 27-year-old defender joins us after leaving current UEFA Champions League holders Barcelona, where she made 114 appearances and scored 14 goals across three seasons.
“I’m very happy and excited to get going,” said Ona. “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.”
Born in Vilassar de Mar in Barcelona, Ona developed in Barcelona’s youth academy before gaining senior experience with Madrid CFF and Levante in the Spanish top flight.
A move to England and the Women’s Super League followed in the summer of 2020, as Ona joined Manchester United. Over three campaigns in Manchester, Ona made 77 appearances and scored three goals, establishing her reputation as one of the best full-backs in the world.
Ona returned to Barcelona ahead of the 2023/24 season and has played an integral role in the Catalans’ success over the past three years, winning three league titles, three Spanish Cups, three Spanish Super Cups and two UEFA Champions League titles.
At international level, Ona made her senior Spain debut in 2019 and has won 76 caps for her country, scoring two goals. She started every game as Spain won the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, and also won back-to-back UEFA Women’s Nations League titles in 2023/24 and 2024/25.
In recognition of her achievements, Ona was named in The Best FIFA Women’s 11 in 2024 and 2025, as well as the FIFPRO Women’s World 11 in 2025.
Director of Women’s Football Clare Wheatley said: “Ona’s track record at both club and international level speaks for itself – she’s a proven winner with a hunger to add more trophies. We’re delighted to bring one of the best defenders in the world to Arsenal, and I know our supporters will make her feel welcome straight away.”
Head Coach Renée Slegers said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to bring Ona to the club. 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.”
