Chloe Kelly’s Inspiring Journey: From Dark Times to European Championship Glory
Chloe Kelly, the Arsenal star and England international, recently opened up about her struggles earlier this year, revealing she found herself in a "dark place" despite her remarkable performance in Euro 2025. Just days after securing the victory for the Lionesses with a decisive penalty shootout against Spain, Kelly shared her emotional journey, highlighting the challenges she faced on and off the pitch.
After scoring the winning penalty that ensured England retained their European Championship title, Kelly reflected on the arduous year she experienced. At just 27, she had encountered difficulties during her time at Manchester City before making the pivotal move back to Arsenal in January, the club where her career began. With her place on the national team at stake, she worked hard to turn her fortunes around through impressive performances in North London.
In a heartfelt interview on This Morning, Kelly admitted, "Mentally, I was in a really dark place in January, and I needed to find happiness again both on and off the pitch." She emphasized the importance of mental health in sports, stating, "Football felt so far away at the time." Fortunately, her time at Arsenal helped her rediscover her love for the game. "As the months went by, I could feel myself smiling again. It’s vital for us as human beings," she added.
Kelly’s journey from despair to triumph culminated in her becoming a European champion—a title she now embraces with immense pride. "The Euros felt so distant in January because I just wanted to be happy," she explained.
When asked about her ability to remain calm under pressure, especially during the decisive penalty, Kelly shared her training techniques. "I focus on my breathing and remind myself that whether I score or miss, that’s the worst that can happen. It’s just me against the goalkeeper, so I try to stay relaxed."
Looking ahead, the Lionesses are set to face China on November 29, and fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as Kelly continues to shine both on and off the pitch.
Chloe Kelly’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health in sports and the incredible resilience athletes can show in the face of adversity.
