Arsenal Women have made headlines with their latest signing, as they have secured the loan of England forward Chloe Kelly from Manchester City for the remainder of the season. The confirmation came on January 30, 2025, just hours before the deadline of the Women’s Super League transfer window. The move marks Kelly's return to Arsenal, where she began her senior career at the age of 17 but left to join Everton back in 2018.
Kelly's decision to leave City was deeply personal. She took to Instagram prior to the announcement, expressing her frustrations over limited game time this season, having made only six appearances so far. Her emotional post highlighted her desire for greater play opportunities as she prepares for Euro 2025 next summer. She stated, "For a long time, I've tried to work through professional challenges privately... I am human, and I have and will give everything to the game I love. "
The transfer was not devoid of drama. Manchester United had shown interest up until the very last minute, alongside Brighton & Hove Albion. Nevertheless, it was Arsenal's offer and the club's ambition to strengthen their squad for upcoming challenges, including the push for the Champions League, which sealed the deal. Notably, Arsenal's Head Coach Renée Slegers praised Kelly's talent and potential impact on the squad: "Chloe is direct and explosive, with huge natural talent and ability. We’re all looking forward to working with her as we move forward this season."
Kelly's move is seen as beneficial for all parties involved. Arsenal, facing challenges with depth out wide, welcomes Kelly's skills, particularly as they aim for competitive success this season. Kelly, eager to regain her form, stressed the importance of playing regularly, especially as Euro 2025 approaches. “I’m at a pivotal point in my life, and my career is so important to me; it is very disappointing to feel this way, especially after there's been so much growth in our sport,” she noted.
After the confirmation of her loan, Kelly expressed her disappointment over alleged tactics employed by individuals within Manchester City, who she claimed attempted to tarnish her reputation as she sought to move clubs. "So disappointed to find out tonight... they’ve called reporters to assassinate my character and tried to plant negative stories about me," she lamented. She emphasized the need for solidarity among women, stating, “Women should look after each other, and build each other up ... not shoot them down to protect their employers.”
Throughout her career, Kelly has made significant contributions, including being the hero of Euro 2022, where she scored the winning goal for England. With 48 caps for her national team, she is no stranger to high-pressure situations and this move is expected to reignite her career with Arsenal. Clare Wheatley, Arsenal's Director of Women’s Football, echoed the sentiments of excitement, having seen the talent Kelly possesses throughout her developmental years: "We’re thrilled to welcome Chloe back to Arsenal. We’ve been proud to see the career she’s gone on to enjoy, both at club and international level. We're delighted she will be representing Arsenal again as we aim to compete for honour this season."
The Gunners have made this loan deal during the January transfer window, alongside the signing of Jenna Nighswonger from Gotham City, to strengthen their squad as they gear up for the second half of the season. Kelly will don the number 18 shirt as she rejoins the team she once called home.
With her remarkable skills and the added motivation of preparing for Euro 2025, fans are eager to see Kelly back on the pitch with Arsenal and to support her as she embarks on this new chapter of her career. Will her impact transform Arsenal’s campaign? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure; the football world will be watching closely as Kelly takes her next steps wearing the red and white of Arsenal again.