Offers had come in, and sources told ESPN that both Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion made loan approaches, but although she wanted to remain closer to home in Manchester, City weren't keen for her to join their rivals and eventually accepted Brighton's offer ahead of deadline day. Kelly didn't want to go to Brighton, however. So, with no movement over a new contract at City and her mental health deteriorating on the sidelines, she took the bold step of speaking out publicly.
That strike was the latest highlight in a career which began on the streets of Southall, where Kelly - the youngest of seven siblings - would often go up against her five older brothers in the Windmill Park Estate cage. As proving grounds went, that particular concrete pitch in west London would end up being a fitting place for the Arsenal star's love for the game to take hold.
Chloe Kelly was the hero again as England retained their European Championship crown with a 3-1 penalty shoot-out win over Spain, netting the winning spot-kick after a 1-1 draw in Basel. Kelly's Arsenal team-mates Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo both scored headers in normal time, and though world champions Spain pushed for a winner in the additional period, they were unable to prevent a shoot-out. England were made to regret a big miss from Lauren Hemp when Spain took the lead in the 25th minute.
Chloe Kelly explained that the 'clicking' celebration among England forwards was a signal from their group called the 'finishers' or the 'positive clique,' promoting teamwork and enjoyment.