Chloe Kelly’s Journey: From the Brink of Leaving Football to Triumph
Chloe Kelly, once a promising star at Manchester City, found herself on the brink of leaving football behind in January 2025. With limited opportunities and her contract nearing its end, she was relegated to the bench, causing significant distress as her career appeared to be in jeopardy. A transfer seemed like her only avenue for redemption, leading her to receive offers from both Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion. Ultimately, despite her preferences, City opted to send her to Brighton, a move she resisted.
Taking a Stand
In a bold move, with her mental health suffering amid prolonged inactivity, Kelly took to social media to express her struggles, criticizing the club for imposing restrictions on her future and the detrimental behavior of certain individuals. Her heartfelt post garnered overwhelming support from fellow England players, fans, and even notable public figures, signaling that Kelly had reached a pivotal moment in her life. She needed to be active on the field—another six months of sidelined existence could end her career.
As the transfer deadline loomed, Arsenal, the club where she originally honed her skills, made their pitch. They proposed a short-term loan, which Kelly accepted with relief, marking an end to her stint at City without any tearful farewells. Just before her return to north London, she issued another statement, this time accusing some at City of damaging her reputation with unfounded claims, highlighting just how intense her situation had become.
A Remarkable Comeback
Fast forward eight months, and Kelly is now gearing up to face City as a victorious titleholder, including a UEFA Women’s Champions League win and two European championship medals. But her journey to this point has been anything but straightforward.
Kelly had joined Manchester City from Everton in 2020, where she quickly established herself as a key player, bringing in 10 goals and 11 assists in her first season. A devastating anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2021, however, sidelined her during a crucial time, including missing the Tokyo Olympics as she struggled with isolation during her rehabilitation. During this challenging period, she expressed feelings of worthlessness; however, she credited City manager Gareth Taylor for his support in navigating those tough moments.
Against the odds, Kelly made a remarkable comeback, securing her place in the England squad for the 2022 European Championships, which culminated in a historic victory where she scored the decisive goal in the final against Germany, propelling her into the spotlight. With her newfound fame, she continued to excel, contributing significantly in subsequent seasons, until her dwindling playing time at City led to increasing frustration and uncertainty about her future.
Resilience and Transformation
Despite a season marred by limited action—spending most matches as an unused substitute—Kelly’s resilience saw her through, although her struggles caught the attention of national team coach Sarina Wiegman who stressed the importance of consistent playing time. Kelly’s decision to join Arsenal significantly shifted her trajectory; she quickly adapted and found her form once again, evidenced by her performances in the WSL and contributions to Arsenal’s Champions League victory.
In February, Kelly openly declared her desire to find happiness again, which she accomplished at Arsenal. Her performances at Euro 2025 reaffirmed her importance, notably her role in pivotal games that showcased her determination and skill. With her resurgence, she now approaches her return to City with excitement and confidence.
“When I’m at my best, I have a smile on my face,”
she reflected, ready to face any challenge ahead.
A Beacon of Hope
Kelly’s journey underscores her remarkable resilience and capacity to overcome adversity, transforming her struggles into success and serving as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.
