Chloe Kelly’s Return to Arsenal: A Fresh Start in North London

Chloe Kelly’s return to Arsenal has been highly anticipated, marking a significant moment in her career. After a wait of seven years, or 2,815 days to be exact, since her last appearance for the Gunners, the England international was greeted with enthusiasm by the Arsenal fans at Emirates Stadium.

Kelly made her second debut for the club as a substitute in the Women’s Super League match against north London rivals Tottenham. The match took place on Sunday, and the home crowd of 56,784 fans gave her a standing ovation as she entered the pitch. Kelly previously spent three years in Arsenal’s first team after coming through the academy, before departing for Everton in 2018.

Substitute Appearance and Impact

The forward came on as a 61st-minute substitute. By that time, Arsenal had already scored four of their five goals against Tottenham. This return signifies a new chapter for Kelly as she aims to regain her position in the England squad for the upcoming Euros.

Kelly joined Arsenal on loan from Manchester City during the January transfer window. Her decision was motivated by a desire to rediscover her happiness and playing time. Prior to the move, she had limited opportunities at Manchester City, with only one WSL start this season. Arsenal has provided her with a platform to revive her career.

Emotional Return

The 27-year-old’s excitement was apparent as she entered the field, with a smile on her face. In a post-match interview with BBC Sport, Kelly expressed her feelings about the return, saying, “It felt amazing in front of unbelievable support.” She also highlighted the warm welcome she has received since joining the club and praised the quality of the players and staff.

Match Overview: Arsenal vs. Tottenham

Arsenal showcased their dominance in the North London derby, securing a 5-0 victory over Tottenham in front of a substantial crowd of 56,784 spectators. Alessia Russo was recognized as the player of the match. The goals for Arsenal were scored by Russo (2), Caldentey, Maanum, and Fox.

Key Moments and Observations

• Emily Fox scored her first WSL goal with a long-range shot from the edge of the box.
• Chloe Kelly, as a substitute, had a near-miss towards the end of the game.
• Arsenal’s dominance was evident throughout the match, with Tottenham struggling to create meaningful chances.
• Jenna Nighswonger made her WSL debut as part of Arsenal’s substitutions.
• Tottenham received one yellow card.

Team Line-up and Changes

Renée Slegers, the manager, made five changes to the starting XI for the north London derby. Daphne van Domselaar, Emily Fox, Steph Catley, Leah Williamson, and Lia Walti returned to the lineup after the 2-0 win against London City Lionesses in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup.

The players who were replaced were Manuela Zinsberger, Katie Reid, Lotte Wubben-Moy, Laia Codina, and Jenna Nighswonger. Chloe Kelly was named on the bench, making her second Arsenal debut as a substitute.

Starting XI

The starting lineup included van Domselaar, Fox, Williamson (C), Catley, Mariona, McCabe, Maanum, Walti, Foord, Russo, and Cooney-Cross. The substitutes were Zinsberger, Codina, Ilestedt, Reid, Nighswonger, Little, Mead, Kelly, and Blackstenius.