Above: Mackenzie Arnold in action at training in Florida. Image: Rachel Bach/Football Australia.
By Genevieve Henry (4/4/24).
Impetus’ Genevieve Henry spoke to Mackenzie Arnold following another day of camp in Florida with the Matildas. An unusual camp, with a week of just training without a match to interrupt the flow, Arnold discussed the importance of this period to change and advance Australia’s gameplay, as well as how playing for West Ham United and the Matildas compliment each other.
“It’s different to what we’re used to, but I think it gives us the best chance to prepare for how we want to play. It comes at the perfect time, just to really get a solid seven days together, really working on that, and not being interrupted by a midweek game. So yeah, it’s really worked out and it’s really beneficial for this time of year.”
While it’s mostly business as usual for the goalkeepers this camp, Arnold hinted that they have been working on something new. “We’re trying to do a new playing style and trying to focus on a couple of different things. I guess it’s sort of just adjusting to each other and playing in the national team– we don’t get to do that too often.”
While playing out from the back–something the Matildas have tried as of late– comes with both advantages and disadvantages, it’s something Arnold embraces. “I love playing out from the back, to be honest. I feel like I’ve always been quite comfortable with my feet. West Ham are trying to do a similar thing, so I feel like I’m really learning in both environments. I’m glad that we’re playing that way and I hope it works out.” She continued, “as a goalkeeper, my position is obviously quite similar in how we want to play at West Ham to the national team, so it’s helping me a tremendous amount trying to prepare for these Olympic Games.”
One challenge the Matildas are facing is the injury to midfield maestro Katrina Gorry, Arnold’s club teammate at West Ham. Arnold confirmed that she had undergone surgery a few days ago, but that she had no clear timeline or news about her availability for the Olympics. While a sidelined Gorry is a big loss for both club and country, it has not put a dent in either’s ambitions.
West Ham’s acquisition of Gorry seemed to be a turning point for the club, now 7 points safe from relegation, with some excellent results against top opposition. The Hammers will hope her absence will not negatively impact the remainder of their season. Arnold reflected on the progress the club has made, saying, “we’re playing the best football we’ve played since I’ve been there, so it’s hard to differentiate our results from how we’ve been playing. I’ve really enjoyed it this year and I feel like we’re really taking positive strides.”
Arnold, club captain, will be out of contract at West Ham at the conclusion of the season, but emphasised the fact that she is just focusing on the season at the moment. “I haven’t really dived too much into it yet, to be honest. I’m still in the midst of the season, just trying to get points and stay above relegation…We’ll see at the end of the season.”
“Before the World Cup I was sort of able to just focus on myself, try to play the best that I can, and try to get a spot in the World Cup roster. But, I think now since the captaincy, I’ve taken on a lot more responsibility. It has its good and bad, but I’m enjoying the challenge and love leading the girls out. There are definitely new lessons that I’m trying to adjust to in the West Ham environment, but I think when I come back here I’m able to just be myself and take a backseat.”
Follow Impetus on social media –
Twitter (X): @impetusfootball TikTok: @impetusfootball Facebook: @impetuswomensfootball
Instagram: @impetusfootball
impetusfootball.org 