Chloe Kelly Joins Arsenal on Loan from Manchester City After Tumultuous January Transfer Window

England forward Chloe Kelly has completed a loan move to Arsenal from Manchester City for the remainder of the season, bringing an end to a dramatic and challenging January transfer saga. The 27-year-old striker’s future at City had been the subject of intense speculation throughout the month as she sought a move away from the club, eager to secure regular playing time ahead of this summer’s UEFA Women’s European Championship.

Kelly’s departure from City became a tense and public matter. Despite interest from several WSL clubs, including Manchester United, who made a deadline-day offer, City rejected the bids. Ultimately, it was Arsenal who secured a loan agreement with City, allowing Kelly to continue her career at the Gunners for the remainder of the season.

The striker, who scored the winning goal for England in their historic Euro 2022 final victory over Germany, had expressed concerns about her place in the England squad due to a lack of game time at City. Having made just one WSL start this season, Kelly is keen to ensure that she remains in contention for a spot in the squad ahead of the 2025 European Championship in July. She made her feelings clear in a post on Instagram, stating that she wanted "to be happy again" and did not see her future at City beyond the summer.

“I want to be in a position to give it my best shot to represent my country,” Kelly wrote. “However, to be dictated whom I can and can't join with only four months left of the football season is having a huge impact on not only my career but my mental wellbeing.”

As part of her loan move, Kelly will not be eligible to play in Arsenal's upcoming Women's Super League (WSL) clash against City this Sunday, adding an extra layer of tension to her departure.

The move has been a relief for both Kelly and City, who have endured weeks of tension. Leading up to the transfer deadline, Kelly’s intentions to leave were well-known, with City receiving offers from Brighton and Manchester United. Despite these, neither offer was accepted by City, with one reportedly lacking a wage agreement for the remainder of the season. Arsenal’s late offer was eventually accepted, with both sides keen to finalize the deal.

Kelly’s situation at City had become increasingly strained, with the player feeling that her career and mental well-being were being negatively impacted by the club’s handling of her future. In her post, she described the situation as “dragged on for too long” and expressed her disappointment with how it had been managed.

As Kelly moves to Arsenal, her primary goal will be securing regular playing time, which she hopes will increase her chances of making the England squad for the Euros. It remains to be seen how quickly she can integrate into Arsenal’s squad, but her arrival adds further strength to the Gunners' attacking options for the remainder of the season.

With the transfer saga behind her, Kelly now looks ahead to her potential future at Arsenal and her hopes of representing England on the international stage.