Chloe Kelly row explained as Man City accused of 'trying to assassinate her character' after Arsenal move
WATCH NOW: Sports round-up as Chloe Kelly leaves Man City for Arsenal
England star Chloe Kelly has launched a scathing attack on Manchester City, accusing the club of attempting to "assassinate my character" following her deadline day loan move to Arsenal.
The 27-year-old forward took to social media to claim City officials tried to plant negative stories about her in the media.
Kelly's explosive statement came moments after securing her transfer to the north London club, where she will spend the remainder of the season.
The Euro 2022 hero's contract at City was set to expire in June.
Chloe Kelly has left Man City for Arsenal on transfer deadline day
GETTY
In her social media statement, Kelly wrote: "So disappointed to find out tonight that people at the club are briefing journalists against me if I am to sign at a club before the window shuts."
"They've called reporters to assassinate my character and tried to plant negative stories about me in the football media. Of which is false accusations," she added.
Kelly expressed particular disappointment at the treatment, stating: "Women should look after each other, and build each other up... not shoot them down to protect their employers."
The 27-year-old had been struggling for game time at City this season, starting just once in six league appearances.
Chloe Kelly has launched a furious attack on Man City following her loan move to Arsenal
The England international had previously indicated her contract situation was affecting her mental wellbeing as City dictated which club she could join in the January window.
The forward's limited playing time has become a concern for England manager Sarina Wiegman ahead of this summer's Euros defence.
Arsenal currently sit fourth in the WSL table, one point behind City.
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Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers welcomed the signing, saying: "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," Slegers added.
The Gunners' Director of Women's football expressed delight at Kelly's return: "As an academy graduate, we've been proud to see the career she's gone on to enjoy, both at club and international level."
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Kelly's Arsenal move marks a return to familiar territory, having played for the club's youth academy at age 12 in 2010.
She made 19 appearances for Arsenal's first team before joining Everton permanently in 2018.
Kelly later moved to Manchester City in 2020, where she claimed FA Cup and League Cup honours.
Chloe Kelly pictured during her time in the Arsenal academy
GETTY
The forward etched her name in English football history by scoring the winning goal against Germany in the Euro 2022 final.
Her arrival strengthens Arsenal's push for a Champions League spot as they compete for a top-three finish.
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