Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold has agreed to join National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) giants Portland Thorns.
The Liberty A-League great will link up with the Thorns following the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, having signed a contract through the 2026 season and there is a mutual option for 2027.
Portland are the most successful NWSL club with three Championships (2013, 2017 and 2022), while they have claimed two Shields.
AUSSIE TO COACH IN EUROPE: Melbourne City’s Dario Vidosic appointed Brighton & Hove Albion coach
“I want to win games and bring more Championships and Shields to the club,” Arnold – an A-Leagues Premiership winner with Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar – told Portland’s official media.
“I’ve heard so much about the success and history of the club. It’s something I’ve really wanted to be apart of.
“I hope to play my part and bring success to the team. I’m very excited.”
PHOENIX COUP: Benfica keeper arrives in Liberty A-League
Arnold was on the lookout for a new club after leaving West Ham in England’s Women’s Super League (WSL) at the end of 2023-24.
The Australia international had established herself as a star during her four years at West Ham and she was linked with a move to Manchester United upon confirmation of her Hammers departure.
Arnold is the third Matildas player set to feature in the NWSL, alongside Aussie teammates and San Diego Wave duo Emily van Egmond and Kaitlyn Torpey.
She is also the latest Australian to play for the Thorns, after Ellie Carpenter (2018-19), Steph Catley (2014-15), Caitlin Foord (2018-19), Clare Polkinghorne (2015), Hayley Raso (2016-19) and Ashleigh Sykes (2017).
