Chloe Kelly has signed for Arsenal on a free transfer after her successful loan, which ended with aChampions League title.
“Putting pen to paper on a permanent contract at Arsenal is a standout moment for me,” said Kelly, who is in Switzerland preparing for England’s Euro 2025 campaign. “Learning from an incredible manager and continuing to build relationships with an excellent team is a journey I’m looking forward to continuing.”
Renée Slegers, the manager, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to make Chloe a permanent signing for us. She had a great impact for us and played an important role in what we achieved here last season, and I know she shares our ambition to compete for more.”
The 27-year-old forward joinedon loan in Januaryafter falling out of favour at Manchester City. She had pushed hard for a move to increase her chances of making England’s Euros squad after only starting one game in the first half of the season. Kelly had posted on Instagram that she wanted “to be happy again” and criticised City, saying they were dictating who she could or could not join.
Kelly had spent eight years at Arsenal from the age of 12 and made 19 first-team appearances in that first spell, scoring nine goals. She joined Everton after two loans there, scoring 18 goals in 51 games, before joining City in 2020 and winning the FA Cup and League Cup.
Kelly made the front page of every national newspaper in England in July 2022 after she scored England’sEuro 2022 winning goal against Germany. She has made 53 appearances for England and scored eight times.
After the Champions League final,Kelly praised Arsenalfor helping her find happiness again on the pitch. “From being in such a dark place to now, it’s crazy,” she said.
Kelly slotted back in at Arsenal instantly and was a critical part of their charge to a second European title. Her bond with the fans was quickly re-established. She was given a standing ovation on making her second debut and danced and celebrated with fans in The Tollington pub after Arsenal’s trophy lift outside the Emirates Stadium.
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“I’m excited for more silverware at this special club and to bring more trophies back to north London to celebrate with our supporters,” she said. “I’ve always said that Arsenal supporters are the best and to have them on my side, singing my name, means so much to me.”
Arsenal’s director of women’s football, Clare Wheatley, said: “Chloe’s application, attitude and performances were outstanding throughout her loan spell last season and we are delighted to continue working together.”