Chloe Kelly Embraces New Chapter at Arsenal

England winger Chloe Kelly has revealed she's "definitely smiling more" since completing her January loan move from Manchester City to Arsenal. The 27-year-old struggled for game time during the first half of the 2023-24 Women's Super League (WSL) season, making just one league start for City.

Career Revival in North London

• Increased playing time: Kelly has started 8 of 10 matches for Arsenal, including key Champions League fixtures
• European impact: Contributed to Arsenal's run to the UWCL semi-finals
• International boost: Strengthened her case for England's Euro 2025 squad

"I knew I needed minutes to perform at my best," Kelly stated during an England press conference. "Now I'm playing regularly with confidence and joy."

England's Nations League Challenge

Kelly joins the Lionesses squad for crucial UEFA Women's Nations League matches against Belgium:

• April 5: Ashton Gate, Bristol
• April 9: King Power at Den Dreef, Leuven

The 2022 Euros hero (who scored the title-winning goal against Germany) emphasized: "Representing England remains my ultimate honor. This move has put me in the best position to contribute."

The Transfer Saga

• Publicly expressed desire to leave City in January
• Manchester United's deadline-day bid rejected
• Arsenal secured season-long loan deal

Mental Health and Family Support

Kelly acknowledged the psychological toll of her limited playing time at City:

"It affected both my career and mental wellbeing. Being back in London near family has been therapeutic. Appreciating life's smaller joys makes all the difference."

Rising Star: Maisie Symonds' England Debut

In related news, Brighton midfielder Maisie Symonds (22) received her first senior England call-up after overcoming career-threatening health issues:

• Battled undiagnosed glandular fever during Euro 2022
• Missed six months of competitive play
• "I almost asked Sarina if she was sure about selecting me," Symonds joked about the life-changing call

The WSL resumes April 14 with Arsenal hosting Bristol City.