Chloe Kelly was branded as “sakky” by the Spanish press following her celebration in the Euro 2025 final. The Arsenal winger has carried the game’s decisive penalty and secured the second European Championship for the Lioners.
Though emotions have risen as the UK celebrated the successful defense of the European crown, Kelly’s actions have not been well received by international media. He claims that her celebration in front of Spanish goalkeeper Kata Kor is “unnecessary.” As reported by Spanish publication Dario AS, Kelly changed her course after scoring from a penalty spot and gestured towards the keeper. They write: “My friend, my friend: Kelly’s cocky gesture to Kata Kol after winning a decisive penalty. The English expert changed her run during the celebration of her penalty to pass the goalkeeper she beat.”
It follows Kelly heading straight towards the England fans on the corner. This is an action labelled as something not “sakky.” A replacement for the Euro 2025 Finals, Kelly gave her a sense of presence throughout the tournament, even from the bench.
Before winning the penalty, she supported Areciarsso’s 57-minute equalizer. Kelly wasted penalties during his semi-final victory over Italy, converted rebounds, leaving history determined not to repeat.
She said: “I didn’t miss two on the bounce. I’m cool, I was composed. I knew I would hit the back of the net. I’d never miss a penalty twice.”
The 27-year-old feared that her English ambitions would slip as she fought for form and time during the spell in Manchester City. Kelly eventually secured a loan move to Arsenal in January and made the move permanent in July, allowing her to rediscover her best form and achieve an important career landmark.
She added:
Kelly also praised the influence of manager Salena Wigman, saying, “She gave me hope when I probably didn’t have. She gave me the opportunity to represent my country again.”
In her pointy message to her critics, the Arsenal star was also posted on social media: “Thank you to everyone who wrote me down – I am grateful.”
