Arsenal star Chloe Kelly sent out a pointed message to her critics after starring in England's Women's Euro 2025 triumph over world champions Spain. After netting the last-gasp winner in the semi-final against Italy, the English forward scored the crucial penalty in the final as the Lionesses successfully defended their European title.
Kelly sent message to critics
Scored the winning penalty in the final
Signed a permanent Arsenal contract earlier in the summer
Kelly had a difficult start to the 2024-25 campaign as she lost her place in the Manchester City starting line-up and eventually left the club in January to join Arsenal on loan. The second half of the season, however, proved to be a roaring success for the 27-year-old as she won the Champions League with the Gunners and then bagged the European title with the national team.
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WHAT KELLY SAID
Speaking to reporters after the match, Kelly said: "There were a lot of tears at full-time, especially when I saw my family, because they were the people that come me through those dark moments. I am so grateful to be out at the back end, but if that’s a story to tell someone who maybe experiences something the same, then tough times don’t last and just around the corner was a Champions League final. I won that and now a Euros final, I’ve won that. So, thank you to everyone that wrote me off, I’m grateful."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Overjoyed with the success of the Lionesses, Kelly also swore on live television while speaking to , as she said: "This team is made of magic and steel. When we were down against Sweden and down against Italy, we f*cking showed grit and determination and we came back. You can't write the English off."
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WHAT NEXT FOR KELLY?
After penning a permanent deal with Arsenal, Kelly will now look forward to making a fresh start in the 2025-26 Women's Super League campaign.