Extra: Mariona Caldentey meets Guillem Balagué

About this episode

Guillem Balagué interviews Mariona Caldentey about her career, the Champions League, and the rivalry between Spain and England.

Ahead of the Women’s Champions League semi-finals, Guillem Balagué sits down with Spain and Arsenal midfielder Mariona Caldentey, who is personally going for a fourth consecutive UWCL title, and a fifth overall! Mariona gives us an insight into her childhood on the island of Mallorca, moving to Barcelona at the age of 18 and how she’s adapted since moving to Arsenal July in 2024. Plus, the pair look ahead to facing European giants Lyon in the semi-finals this season, just how much the Champions League means to her and of course, discuss the growing rivalry on the international stage that is Spain vs the Lionesses! Commentary of both legs of Arsenal’s semi-final against Lyon will be on 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds. TIMECODES: 00:46 - Mariona sits down with Guillem. 01:17 - Mariona tells us about her childhood in Felanitx, on the island of Mallorca. 06:40 - On joining Barcelona at 18 years old. 08:50 - On moving to Arsenal back in the summer of 2024 and how she’s adapted. 12:24 - On the recognition she achieved during her first season in England. 15:45 - On her club captain Kim Little and playing at the Emirates. 21:20 - Looking back on last year’s Champions League win. 22:40…

People in this episode

Host: Guillem Balagué

Guest: Mariona Caldentey

Topics covered

• Women's Champions League
• Mariona Caldentey
• Arsenal
• Barcelona
• Spain vs Lionesses
• football rivalry
• player adaptation

Keywords

• Mariona Caldentey
• Guillem Balagué
• Champions League
• Arsenal
• Barcelona
• football
• Spain
• Lionesses
• rivalry

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Arsenal, Barcelona, Lyon

Places: Mallorca, Felanitx

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