Chloe Kelly: How England’s Euros Hero Found Herself Back On The Arsenal Bench And Down The Lionesses Pecking Order

Chloe Kelly: From Euro Hero to Arsenal Bench

Chloe Kelly captured the nation’s attention this past summer with pivotal performances in Euro 2025. Her role in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final helped England lift their second successive European crown. Her fame even surpassed the levels achieved after her extra-time goal won Euro 2022.

Yet, back at Arsenal this season, fans hoping to see Kelly recreate that magic in the Women’s Super League have been disappointed. Across nine WSL games and four Champions League outings, only four players in the squad have logged fewer minutes than Kelly. She’s started just three matches since the season kicked off in early September, despite making her permanent move to the club after a successful loan in early 2025.

Managing a Setback

It’s been a challenging start to the season for the 27-year-old. Kelly started Arsenal’s opener against London City Lionesses but missed the next game at West Ham due to a knee issue, wearing visible strapping until early November.

Despite not being fully fit, she started in a high-profile clash against Lyon in early October but struggled to make an impact, being substituted before the hour mark. For most other appearances, she has come off the bench.

Glimpses of Brilliance

While battling fitness issues, Kelly has still delivered moments of quality. She scored against former club Manchester City in early October and impressed in the Champions League with a clever assist for Alessia Russo against Benfica and a superb cross that set up a goal against Real Madrid.

Even if limited in minutes, Kelly’s ability to influence matches remains evident when fully fit.

Back on Track

Fortunately, Kelly appears to have turned a corner with her fitness. Arsenal manager Renee Slegers confirmed that the winger is now fully fit, having missed only the West Ham game and a few training sessions.

Her recent start against Real Madrid, just her third of the season, highlighted her return to form. Kelly delivered a brilliant cross for Russo and looked sharp and confident, proving she can still be a key player for Arsenal as the season progresses.

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