‘I’m excited for more trophies’ – Chloe Kelly signs for Arsenal

Kelly’s intentions to leave Manchester City were well known throughout January but it became an increasingly toxic stand-off between the England international and the club.

The London-born player, who joined City in 2020, had posted on Instagram that she wanted “to be happy again” and did not see her future at City beyond the summer.

She also feared for her place in the England squad after being restricted to just one Women’s Super League start for City in 2024-25.

Kelly’s departure was not a smooth one, with her claiming City were “dictating” who she could or could not join.

Eventually, she rejoined Arsenal, helping them to an outstanding victory over Barcelona in Lisbon.

In a farewell statement to Manchester City on social media, external, Kelly said: “I want to take this moment to acknowledge the good in my time at City.

“The unwavering support from the fans and the relationships formed with the girls and wider support staff. You’ve helped shape me to become the person I am today, I’ll be forever grateful those people.

“Memories created and lessons learned. All stories should have happy endings, now it’s time to look to the future. Love to all.”

Kelly made 109 appearances and scored 31 goals for City, winning the FA Cup in 2019-20 and League Cup in 2021-22.