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Slegers’ influence key to Chloe Kelly’s revival

Chloe Kelly says she’s “learning so much” at Arsenal after her January move, crediting Renée Slegers, Beth Mead, and Alessia Russo with helping her rediscover her rhythm.

BURTON-UPON-TRENT, ENGLAND - APRIL 01: Maya Le Tissier and Chloe Kelly of England high five during a training session at St Georges Park on April 01, 2025 in Burton-upon-Trent, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images

Chloe Kelly has described her return to regular football at Arsenal as a turning point in her season, crediting the club’s environment and coaching staff with reigniting her development.

Speaking while on international duty with England, Kelly said, “Right now, I’m learning so much in the environment that I’m in. I am doing the same here. I’m a player who always wants to get better. I’m probably my own worst critic as well which is important. There’s definitely more to come from me.”

BURTON-UPON-TRENT, ENGLAND - APRIL 01: Chloe Kelly of England during a training session at St Georges Park on April 01, 2025 in Burton-upon-Trent, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images

After limited minutes at Manchester City, Kelly pushed for a move and secured a deadline-day loan back to the club where she first trained as a 12-year-old. Her performances since joining Arsenal have seen her recalled to the England squad.

“I think you look back on every decision you make and hope that it works out for you,” she said. “Right now, I’m playing plenty of minutes and I’m enjoying my football. I feel like I’m learning under Renée [Slegers]. I’m here and I’ve got an opportunity to represent my country again, which is a huge honour.”

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 26: Beth Mead and Chloe Kelly of Arsenal celebrate after the team's victory and progression to the Semi-Final after the UEFA Women's Champions League Quarter Finals Second Leg match between Arsenal FC and Real Madrid CF at Emirates Stadium on March 26, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

She also spoke about the influence of her new teammates: “It’s great to be alongside so many great players, both at club and country. I think to be surrounded by those players is important for my learning and pushing myself every day.

“I can just learn what Alessia [Russo] is doing and how I can match that to be at my best to help her score goals; Beth [Mead] as well. I think the connection off the pitch is really important.”

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 07: Alessia Russo of England is substituted by Chloe Kelly during the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Round of 16 match between England and Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium on August 07, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)
Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

So, what does the future hold for Kelly? “I take each day as it comes and I work hard every day to put myself in the best possible position for the next day,” she said.

“I don’t look too far ahead in anything. I’m just having fun. I’m back in London with my family and I’m appreciating the little things in life … Right now, I’m just focused on tomorrow and being the best version of myself, and hopefully that puts me in the best possible position come the summer.”

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