Chloe Kelly joins Arsenal on loan after social media plea for a move | OneFootball

Manchester City forward Chloe Kelly has joined Arsenal on loan until the end of the season just before the closure of the January transfer window.

The England international made her intentions clear to move away from the club when she took to social media to publicly express her disappointment. In the final hours of deadline day, her wish was granted.

She was reportedly subject to a bid from rivals Manchester United, which was reportedly rejected, before a move down to London was pushed through.

It’s a return to Arsenal for Kelly, who came through the academy and started her career before moving on to Everton.

Arsenal boss Renée Slegers was delighted at the signing, “Chloe is an exciting attacking player and will be a great addition to our squad as we approach the second half of the season.

“She’s direct and explosive, with huge natural talent and ability. We’re all looking forward to working with Chloe as an Arsenal player in the coming months.”

Arsenal’s Director of Women’s Football, Clare Wheatley, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Chloe back to Arsenal. As an academy graduate, we’ve been proud to see the career she’s gone on enjoy, both at club and international level. We’re delighted she’ll be representing Arsenal again as we aim to compete for honours this season.”

Kelly has been awarded just a single start for City in the Women’s Super League this season. Scorer of the winning goal for the Lionesses in the most recent Euros, this summer’s tournament is fast approaching.

The attacker knows she needs game time to be included in the England squad.

Kelly hit out at her employers on social media, declaring that City were dictating “whom I can and can’t join… having a huge impact on not only my career but my mental wellbeing. Ultimately I just want to be happy again.”

Hopefully it is the right move for the 27-year-old and she gets back to her best both on and off the pitch.

She will wear the number 18 shirt for the Gunners, the same that she wore during her first stint at the club.

Arsenal face Man City in both of their next two matches, although Kelly will be unable to feature against her parent club.