After Arsenal's unexpected Champions League final victory over Barcelona in May, Katie McCabe was at the centre of celebrations. The Republic of Ireland captain, who played in a back four that did not concede a single foul against the three-time champions, took a leading role in the party at the Emirates Stadium. She later said she had "worked my whole career to lift a trophy like that" with Arsenal and was determined to enjoy the moment with her team-mates.
McCabe's exuberance continued into the celebrations, as she led the crowd in singing her own chant, before admitting she "can't sing it ever again" after receiving considerable teasing. Despite speculation about whether she would be fit for the Republic of Ireland's Nations League match against Turkey six days later, McCabe played the full match and delivered a player-of-the-match performance in a 2-1 win. She attributed her readiness to careful recovery and an understanding of her body's needs.
The 30-year-old's commitment to conditioning is rooted in a leg break she suffered at 18 while playing for Raheny United. That experience instilled a determination to avoid similar setbacks, leading her to focus on sleep, nutrition and recovery strategies, including saunas and ice baths. McCabe said she has even installed a sauna at home "to chase those one per cents" and credited Arsenal's facilities and staff for supporting her meticulous preparation.
On the pitch, McCabe has evolved into a key creative outlet for Arsenal, with full-back Steph Catley providing cover to allow her to overlap. Her fiery temperament has also made her the most carded player in Women's Super League history, and she broke the record for minutes played in a single Champions League campaign. McCabe insists Arsenal have not given up on this year's WSL title, adding that her passion is simply part of who she is.
