Chloe Kelly wants to stay! Lionesses winger makes clear statement on Arsenal future as she continues to impress since loan transfer from Man City

That was not always the case towards the end of her stint at Manchester City, as game time became limited as her contract ran down. A deal was eventually agreed that allowed the Euro 2022 winner to return to her roots in London.

Kelly has been among the goals for the Gunners, while registering another assist in their 4-0 Women's Super League win over Crystal Palace. The 27-year-old is putting her experience and ability to good use alongside fellow Lionesses Beth Mead, Alessia Russo and Leah Williamson.

Quizzed on whether she would like to remain at Arsenal beyond the end of the season, Kelly told Arseblog News: “This is a great club. I think, for me, I just want to focus on being the best I can be every day to contribute to this amazing club, amazing team. I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring me here on loan. Of course, I’m still contracted to Manchester City, so I think I have to show respect, but I think for me, I just want to be at my best every single day, give what I can for this season. And who knows what the future holds.”

Kelly added on rediscovering her passion for the game: “It’s been great. I always said I really wanted to get my smile back and this club has has done just that for me and I’m very grateful and you can see when I have a smile on my face, I just play free and I have good energy. For me that’s what it’s all about. I think when Renee [Slegers] gives that confidence to you, you just have to show and repay that. I’m just having fun, so when I’m having fun, I’m at my best.”

Kelly is helping to keep Arsenal in the hunt for European qualification through their WSL standing, while they are also into the Champions League semi-finals. International action is, however, next on the agenda – with 50-cap Kelly being included in Sarina Wiegman’s latest England squad.