Kelly made a rapid start at Arsenal in the second half of the 2024-25 season, scoring twice and providing five assists, and helping the club win a second Women’s Champions League title.
She then played an instrumental role in England retaining the European Championships that summer, including scoring the title-winning penalty against Spain in the shootout.
Last season however, was less successful. Hampered by injury, she only started four times in the Women’s Super League – so is itching to get going in the new campaign, which kicks off on Friday, 4 September.
“I had big goals to do amazing things at Arsenal in my first full season and I was a little disappointed I wasn’t able to,” she says.
“I think I needed this summer to work on myself physically, balancing working in the gym, on the pitch and getting downtime.
“I am in a really good place at the moment. My main goal is to stay fit and fresh all season and be ready when called upon.”
And despite the added allure of a World Cup in Brazil next summer should England navigate the play-offs this autumn, Kelly is keeping her focus on the short term.
“My goals and assists are really important so I’ll make sure I’m right at it,” she adds. “For me, I’ll think about [the World Cup] closer to the time.”