Matildas star Mackenzie Arnold reveals her new club after leaving the Women’s Super League in England

Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold has announced her new club. She signs for American side Portland Thorns, who play in the National Women’s Soccer League.

The 30-year-old player, who spent the past four years at English club West Ham, will join the team after the Olympic Games in Paris.

It was a decision that came as a surprise to many, as Arnold was captain of the Hammers.

Her partner Kirsty Smith also recently signed a contract extension with the WSL club in East London.

‘This was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make… I had such a great time at the famous Claret and Blue,’ Arnold wrote in an Instagram post after her departure became public.

‘It’s almost four years since I arrived at Chadwell Heath and it didn’t take long for me to realise how special this club was and how much I felt at home here.

‘My time here has shaped me as a player, but most importantly as a person, and I owe a lot to West Ham for that.

‘I’ve been fortunate enough to play football in many different countries but I’m so grateful to have had this chapter at a club that means so much to me. West Ham will always have a special place in my heart.’

The 30-year-old, who spent the past four years at English club West Ham, will join the team after the Paris Olympics (pictured left, with partner Kirsty Smith)

Once in the U.S., Arnold won’t have to look far for familiar faces. Her Matildas teammates Kaitlyn Torpey (San Diego Wave) and Cortnee Vine (North Carolina Courage) have both joined Plat since last year’s World Championships.

Experienced midfielder Emily Van Egmond (San Diego Wave) has also extended her contract in America.

“From the beginning, this club has prioritized competition at all positions with the goal of building teams that can compete at the highest level and win championships year after year,” said Karina LeBlanc, Portland’s general manager and president of soccer, after securing Arnold’s services.

“Mackenzie is someone we have identified as a player who can help improve our goalkeeping group. “She is a highly decorated international goalkeeper, with experience on the biggest stages in the world.

“We believe her arrival will strengthen our goalkeeping unit, improve our team and help us achieve our championship goals.”

This will be Arnold’s second stint in the NWSL after signing for the Chicago Red Stars in July 2019 but not playing for the team.

The Thorns are one of the most successful clubs in the NWSL, having won the title three times, most recently in 2022.