“I’m feeling good, very grateful,” Chloe Kelly said after the Arsenal Women's Champions League final win over Barcelona. “I can’t wait to celebrate.” 

Kelly joined Arsenal on loan in January after struggling for form and happiness at Manchester City. Having been a Gunner as a young player, to win the Champions League with the club is a huge moment for the winger, who spoke about refinding the joy in North London. 

“As soon as I stepped foot in this club, I found happiness. Renée Slegers, as soon as she got on the phone to me to give me the opportunity to represent this badge, I wanted to repay her. From being in such a dark place to now, it’s crazy.” 

Kelly admitted she came close to stepping away from the game entirely and when asked if she could have predicted how things would turn out, Kelly said “No, I was ready to take a break from football completely. I’m just grateful.” 

With her future at Arsenal uncertain, Kelly wouldn’t be drawn on what comes next, but made clear how much the club has meant to her. 

“Look, if it’s my last game for the club, I’ll forever be grateful. I know I’ve given my all to Arsenal Football Club and Arsenal Football club has given their all to me. They gave me an opportunity to step foot on the pitch and find happiness. It’s not about football at times. No matter what happened today, the club gave me happiness.” 

The Arsenal fans have taken to Kelly quickly, and the feeling is mutual. 

“I love them, they’re flipping amazing,” she said. “Whether at the Emirates, whether here in Lisbon, Villa Park when things weren’t going to plan. They know exactly what we want and they’re on that journey with us. They’re the best fans that I’ve ever played in front of. Whether I was playing against them or for them, they’re the best fans.” 

Kelly also reflected on her journey from the Arsenal academy to lifting the biggest trophy in European Football. 

“I literally was speaking to Lotte on the pitch after the game,” she said. “Looking back, it’s been a journey. To do it with these girls is so good. Players that I’ve played with growing up, Leah, when I joined Arsenal when I was 12, it’s amazing. You see the journey that everyone is on.” 

For Kelly, the moment was more than personal achievement, it was a not to the history and legacy that made it possible. 

“Arsenal have always paved the way for women’s football, and we continue to do so. This is for the ones that allowed us to be here today.”