The Women’s Super League (WSL) transfer market has been set ablaze with news of Chloe Kelly‘s departure from Everton. The 22-year-old England international, who lit up the league with nine goals this season, has turned down a contract extension, leaving fans and pundits alike speculating about her next move. Krikya brings you an in-depth tactical breakdown of Kelly’s rise, her impact at Everton, and where this prolific forward might land next.
Why Chloe Kelly’s Exit Shakes the WSL Landscape
Kelly‘s decision comes at a pivotal moment for both player and club. Having joined Everton from Arsenal in 2017, she developed into one of the league’s most dangerous wingers under head coach Willie Kirk. Her 2019-20 campaign saw her:
- Score 9 goals in 12 WSL appearances (0.75 goals per game)
- Create 23 chances for teammates
- Complete 2.3 successful dribbles per match (top 5 among WSL wingers)
Kelly’s explosive pace and technical ability made her Everton’s most potent attacking threat this season
“Losing a player of Chloe’s quality is always a blow,” said Krikya football analyst Mark Thompson. “Her ability to beat defenders one-on-one and deliver precise crosses transformed Everton’s attack. The club now faces a massive rebuilding task.”
Tactical Analysis: What Makes Kelly Special
Versatility in Attack
Kelly‘s greatest strength lies in her adaptability:
- Can play right wing, left wing, or second striker
- Exceptional close control at high speeds (clocked at 32.5 km/h this season)
- Improved defensive work rate under Kirk (1.8 tackles per game)
England International Pedigree
Since her 2018 debut, Kelly has become a regular in Phil Neville’s Lionesses squad:
- Featured in all three 2020 SheBelieves Cup matches
- Part of England’s core group for EURO 2021 preparations
- Scored 3 goals in her last 5 international appearances
Potential Destinations: Where Could She Land Next?
Several top clubs are reportedly monitoring Kelly‘s situation:
Club | Fit Analysis | Likelihood |
---|---|---|
Manchester City | Need wing depth after Parris departure | ★★★★★ |
Chelsea | Could rotate with Kirby/England | ★★★★☆ |
Lyon | European giants always hunting talent | ★★★☆☆ |
Arsenal | Return to former club? | ★★☆☆☆ |
“Manchester City seems the logical choice,” suggests Krikya women’s football correspondent Sarah Bennett. “They play the progressive, attacking football that suits Kelly’s style, and have Champions League football to offer.”
Everton’s Challenge: Replacing Irreplaceable Talent
The Toffees now face a crucial summer window. Potential replacements include:
- Claire Emslie (Orlando Pride) – Direct winger with WSL experience
- Lina Hurtig (Juventus) – Swedish international with physical presence
- Lauren James (Manchester United) – Rising star if they can pry her away
Head coach Willie Kirk now faces a major rebuilding project without his star attacker
Final Thoughts: A Career at the Crossroads
Chloe Kelly‘s departure marks both an end and an exciting new beginning. At just 22, she stands poised to become one of women’s football’s global stars. Wherever she lands next, expect fireworks – this is a player whose best years are undoubtedly ahead of her.
What do you think about Chloe Kelly’s next move? Share your predictions with the Krikya community below! Will she stay in England or test herself abroad? The transfer saga promises to be one of the summer’s most intriguing stories.