There’s one noticeable difference in personnel for Denmark, compared to January, and it appears to be making a world of difference.
Thomas Arnoldsen can be considered a true bolter, emerging from relative obscurity to Denmark’s starting team in a matter of months.
A summer signing from Skanderborg-Aarhus, Arnoldsen only emerged for Aalborg towards the end of 2023, having taken a break due to physical and mental exhaustion.
This mature decision by all involved proved to have a huge impact as the 22-year-old hit the ground running, driving Aalborg to the Champions League final and securing a spot in the Denmark team for his first major championship.
“It’s very special to be able to have such an impact so quickly. The first half year for my new club in Aalborg was very difficult but I think it was the right thing to take a break because I feel a lot better now and I’m enjoying myself a lot more on the court,” explained Arnoldsen, in the aftermath of Denmark’s win over Egypt on Monday afternoon.
Ready-made for the big time
It was a big call for Nikolaj Jacobsen to bring him straight into his 14-man squad for the Olympics but his form speaks for itself. Arnoldsen has fit into the Danish back court like a glove. He shows a composure beyond his years and adds the needed speed to unlock the formidable pair of Gidsel and Pytlick on either side of him.
It also takes some strain off the shoulders of Denmark’s established duo of Mikkel Hansen and Rasmus Lauge, who can be held as impact substitutes and kept at peak fitness for when they’re needed most.
“I love to play with these guys, they’re amazing players and although I haven’t been part of the team for a long time, I’m really enjoying being here and playing handball on the biggest stage.”
He has already proven himself capable of delivering big performances at the EHF FINAL4, so there will be no fear among Danish fans in his ability to perform on the upcoming big occasions. The only fear may be among the rest of the coaching teams, fretting to develop a plan to deal with a Denmark attack that has somehow become more dangerous.