Arsenal Women strengthen squad with experienced loan addition

Arsenal Women have completed the signing of goalkeeper Barbora Votikova on loan from Slavia Prague until the end of the current season.

The move was completed before the January transfer window closed, as the club moved to strengthen their goalkeeping options.

Renee Slegers and her staff were left needing cover between the posts following a difficult run of injuries earlier in the campaign.

Manuela Zinsberger suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury earlier in the season, ruling her out for a long period.

Daphne van Domselaar has also been unavailable, which forced Arsenal to rely on summer signing Anneke Borbe in recent matches.

Borbe stepped in with confidence and delivered several strong displays, helping the side remain competitive during a testing period.

Despite those performances, the club felt added experience was needed to support the squad for the rest of the season.

Why Arsenal moved for the goalkeeper

Votikova is no stranger to English football, having previously played in the Women’s Super League during her time with Tottenham Hotspur.

The Czech goalkeeper made six league appearances for Spurs, gaining valuable experience in a demanding league.

Her first league match in England came against Arsenal, offering her early exposure to the club she has now joined.

Those appearances helped her adapt to the pace and physical demands of football in England.

At 29, she arrives with maturity and a calm presence, which the club values during a crucial stage of the season.

She will compete for a place while also providing depth and reliability within the goalkeeping group.

Career journey and international experience

Votikova began her senior career in 2013 with Viktoria Plzeň, taking her first steps in top-level football.

A year later, she joined Slavia Prague, where she spent seven successful seasons building her reputation.

During that period, she helped the club secure four Czech league titles and one Czech Cup success.

Her strong performances earned her a move abroad, leading to spells with Paris Saint-Germain and Spurs.

After gaining experience in France and England, she returned to Slavia Prague in 2024.

That return proved successful, as she helped the club claim both the league title and the Czech Cup last season.

On the international stage, Votikova made her debut for Czechia in 2014.

She has since earned 56 caps for her country, underlining her consistency at the highest level.

Votikova will wear the number 13 shirt during her loan spell.

The post Arsenal Women strengthen squad with experienced loan addition first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.