Chloe Kelly, a name synonymous with talent, determination, and success in English women’s football, has been a game-changer for Manchester City and the England national team. Her journey from a promising young talent at Arsenal to a key figure in Manchester City’s forward line is a testament to her skill, hard work, and resilience.
Early Beginnings and Rise to Prominence
Chloe Kelly‘s football journey began with Arsenal, where she made her debut at just 17 years old in 2015. Her potential was evident from the start, as she found the net within 22 minutes of her first appearance. Kelly’s time at Arsenal laid the foundation for her professional career, and after signing her first professional contract in 2016, her trajectory in the sport was set.
A loan spell at Everton turned into a permanent move, where Kelly continued to impress with her performances. Her ability to score from long range and her knack for finding the back of the net caught the attention of many, leading to her move to Manchester City in 2020.
Impact at Manchester City
Since joining Manchester City, Chloe Kelly has been nothing short of sensational. In her debut season, she scored 16 goals in 34 appearances, showcasing her prowess as a forward. Her contributions were instrumental in City’s success, helping the team clinch the delayed 2019/20 Women’s FA Cup. Unfortunately, an ACL injury cut her season short, but her impact was already indelible.
Kelly’s excellence on the field has been recognized by fans and peers alike. She was voted Manchester City’s Player of the Season for 2020/21, named in the PFA’s Team of the Year, and awarded the Women’s Player of the Year at the North West Football Awards.
International Success and European Glory
On the international stage, Chloe Kelly has been a standout player for England. Starting with the Lionesses’ Under-15s, she has progressed through the ranks, contributing to the Under-20s’ third-place finish at the 2018 FIFA Under-20 World Cup. Her senior debut came in 2018, and she has since become a key player for the national team.
Kelly’s crowning moment came in the summer of 2022 when she scored the winning goal in the European Championship final against Germany. This historic goal secured England’s first major honour since 1966 and etched Kelly’s name in the annals of English football history.
Playing Style and Attributes
Chloe Kelly is known for her speed, agility, and goal-scoring ability. Her determination and work ethic make her a constant threat to opposing defenses. Kelly’s versatility allows her to play across the forward line, and her ability to provide assists showcases her well-rounded game. With 14 assists in addition to her six goals in the 2022/23 season, Kelly continues to be a pivotal figure for Manchester City.
Future Prospects
Having signed a new three-year contract with Manchester City in February 2022, Chloe Kelly’s future at the club is secure until the summer of 2025. As she continues to develop and refine her game, there is no doubt that Kelly will remain a key player for both Manchester City and the England national team. Her journey in football is a story of inspiration, and the best is yet to come for Chloe Kelly.
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Photo credits: Chloe’s Instagram.
