Chloe Kelly has quickly established herself as a pivotal player for Arsenal since her loan arrival from Manchester City in January. The Eagles’ spirited, talented wide-playmaker has certainly made an immediate impact in England’s Women’s Super League (WSL). She averages an impressive 3.8 shots, 5.8 crosses, and 2.4 chances created per appearance. Her additions have rounded out the Gunners’ attacking arsenal. In doing so, they’ve been a huge part of the team’s stunning turnaround in their 2023 league campaign.
In a recent must-win Champions League match against Real Madrid, Kelly’s game-changing impact was on full display. She provided two assists within the first five minutes of a dramatic second half, helping Arsenal secure a comeback win and eliminate Real Madrid from the competition. This performance showcased her versatility and quality, very much showing that she is a perfect fit in Arsenal’s free-flowing, attacking, high-pressing brand of football.
Ever since her arrival at Arsenal, Kelly has been a central figure to their attacking resurgence this season in the WSL. Her average xG performance is a remarkable 10.8, which leads the league. Against the backdrop of this statistic is her tremendous efficiency in being a creative juggernaut. In set-piece situations — corners, free kicks, throw-ins — she is overall best at producing goal-scoring chances. Her consistent set-piece delivery is a big reason Arsenal have been able to score goals off these set pieces.
Prior to her loan, Kelly had started to feel frozen out at Man City. She featured in only 165 minutes of WSL action this campaign. It’s clear the switch to Arsenal has reinvigorated her career. Now, she’s able to do a greater job of expressing that on the pitch. She’s made a smooth transition to her new role. Now she is playing much more like a No. 10 and acclimating fast with her new teammates.
Kelly spoke positively about her current stewardship of Arsenal, adding that
“I’m playing free and that’s when I’m at my best.” – Chloe Kelly
That freedom on the pitch is visible, as she has quickly become a creative engine for the squad. She’s getting better every match but in a short amount of time, she’s proven beyond doubt that she’s settling in and flourishing in Arsenal’s attacking unit.
As Arsenal look ahead to their semi-final matchup with Lyon, there is no question those contributions from Kelly will be key. Her ability to create chances and score goals will be essential if the team hopes to advance further in the tournament. She’s ridden a wave of overwhelming confidence at Arsenal. In stark contrast to her stint at Manchester City, where she failed to find consistent minutes.
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