Aston Villa secure Swiss International Maritz from Arsenal
Noelle Maritz Credit: Aston Villa
Aston Villa Women have confirmed the signing of Switzerland international Noelle Maritz from Arsenal.
Maritz, a 28-year-old defender, has joined on a two-and-a-half-year contract with an option for an additional year.
This move marks Carla Ward's first acquisition in the January transfer window.
Maritz's football journey includes impressive stints with Zürich Frauen and VfL Wolfsburg prior to her move to England in 2020.
Carla Ward, Aston Villa’s head coach, expressed her delight at Maritz's arrival. “We’re delighted to welcome Noelle to the club," Ward said.
She praised Maritz's extensive experience, including Champions League play and numerous titles. "It’s a really important signing for us as we continue to develop," Ward added.
Maritz's football career began in Newport Beach, California. She later played for the Players Development Academy in New Jersey before returning to Switzerland in 2005.
Starting with FC Amriswil and moving to FC Staad, Maritz also played with FC Wil.
Her senior debut came with FC Zürich in 2011, leading to her signing with VfL Wolfsburg in 2013.
Maritz joined Arsenal in 2020 and made her debut against Reading.
Internationally, Maritz has been a senior Switzerland international since 2013, participating in multiple European Championships and World Cups.
Her experience includes key roles in Switzerland's campaigns in the World Cup qualifiers and European Championships.
She was part of the 2022 European Championship squad and played in all four games in the 2023 World Cup, where Switzerland reached the round of 16.
