Former Tottenham goalkeeper Barbora Votikova joins Arsenal on loan

Arsenal have signed Czech international goalkeeper Barbora Votikova on loan from Slavia Prague for the rest of the season.

It follows Anneke Borbe being stretchered off in Sunday’s Women’s Champions Cup final, Daphne van Domselaar’s recent injury, and Manuela Zinsberger’s continued absence with an ACL injury.

The 29-year-old began her senior career with Victoria Plzen in 2013 before spending seven years with Slavia Prague between 2014 and 2021, helping the team to win four Czech league titles and one Czech Cup.

She then spent two seasons with PSG in France, winning a French Cup title. She joined Tottenham Hotspur, making 11 appearances in all competitions prior to her return to Slavia Prague in 2024, winning a Czech league and cup double last season.

At international level, she made her Czechia debut in 2014 and has gone on to collect 56 appearances for her national team.

Barbora Votikova: Arsenal are a special club

“It feels amazing to join this special club,” said Votikova. “Arsenal is one of the biggest clubs in the world, with a special team and special supporters, so it’s a huge honour for me to come here. It’s been a dream of mine to play at Emirates Stadium and I can’t wait to get started.”

Director of women’s football Clare Wheatley said: “Barbora will be an important addition to our squad as we move into the latter part of the season, bringing experience and proven ability in both the WSL and the Champions League. I know our supporters will join me in welcoming Barbora to the Arsenal family.”

Gunners head coach Renee Slegers added: “We’re delighted to bring in an experienced goalkeeper in Barbora, who will provide additional cover and competition in our goalkeeper unit. Barbora has extensive experience across different leagues in Europe and is familiar with the WSL, so we feel she is an excellent signing to strengthen our squad for the remainder of this season.”