Bad News: Chloe Kelly Accuses Manchester City of Trying to “Assassinate Her Character” After Loan Move to Arsenal

Bad News: Chloe Kelly Accuses Manchester City of Trying to “Assassinate Her Character” After Loan Move to Arsenal

 

 

 

England international Chloe Kelly has publicly accused her former club, Manchester City, of attempting to “assassinate her character” in the aftermath of her loan move to Arsenal. The 26-year-old forward, who played a key role in England’s Euro 2022 triumph, took to social media to issue a scathing statement about the way she was treated by City officials in the final hours of the summer transfer window.

Kelly claimed that certain individuals within the club actively briefed journalists with false and damaging information in an effort to discredit her character and tarnish her reputation. “They’ve called reporters to assassinate my character and tried to plant negative stories about me in the football media – all of which are false accusations,” she wrote.

The statement came shortly after her loan switch to Arsenal was confirmed. Kelly, who had found her playing time limited under Manchester City head coach Gareth Taylor, expressed her frustration over how the situation had been handled behind the scenes. With her contract set to expire at the end of the 2024–25 season, Kelly had been keen to move to a club where she could play more regularly and improve her chances of remaining in contention for the England national team.

In her message, Kelly also accused City of restricting her options in the transfer market. “I was dictated who I could and couldn’t join,” she said, suggesting that her preferred moves may have been blocked by the club. It’s been reported that Manchester United were among the clubs interested in signing her, but that deal failed to materialize.

The player described the final days at City as mentally draining and emotionally taxing. “I just want to find happiness again,” she added, hinting at a toxic environment that had taken a toll on her well-being. Kelly’s post was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow players, many of whom praised her for speaking out.

Manchester City have not issued an official response to Kelly’s accusations, but manager Gareth Taylor addressed the situation in a recent press conference. While expressing disappointment over how the transfer saga unfolded, he emphasized that difficult decisions are part of elite sport. “Selection is a big part of what we do, and sometimes it’s hard when players don’t get the minutes they want,” he said.

Taylor also suggested that the club had acted fairly, allowing Kelly to leave for Arsenal when the time was right. However, he declined to comment on the claims of media briefings or internal conflicts.

The situation has sparked wider debate about player autonomy and mental health in women’s football. As the Women’s Super League continues to grow in visibility and professionalism, issues like transparency, player treatment, and media influence are increasingly coming under the spotlight.

For now, Kelly will be hoping that a fresh start at Arsenal offers the playing time and positive environment she’s been seeking — while the fallout from her departure at Manchester City continues to raise uncomfortable questions.