After a stupendous season in the WSL with an Everton side less capable than the top three, Chloe Kelly has showcased her talent and it hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Kelly has been linked with a move to Manchester City after they said goodbye to Pauline Bremer after the premature end to the 2019/20 season.
This move would make the most sense with City looking to improve their side after being pipped to the title by Chelsea and will want another striker to rival Ellen White.
Kelly’s form and talent this season has proved why she can be a leading striker for a top club.
The 22-year old rejected a new contract at Everton and maybe down to the fact her form and talents have her destined for trophies and greater things.
Where best for Kelly’s development?
Kelly managed nine goals in the 19/20 season which saw her finish fourth top scorer in the WSL, and ahead of White who is City’s main attacking outlet.
She would provide a different dynamic to City with White being more a poacher, Kelly could also play out on the wing like she has done for Everton on a number of occasions.
She can score all types of goals like she has done this season from the long-distance wonder goals, the tap ins as well as the solo goals.
If she was to move to City then it would certainly raise the question as to who does new boss Gareth Taylor favour and would he prefer offering a younger striker the chance to lead the City charge for the title.
If that was to be the case it would show a sign of intent to build for the future with City already having Ellie Roebuck, Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp and Keira Walsh all being 23-years old or younger. Surrounded by players such as Steph Houghton and Jill Scott could be a recipe for success at City.
Is it the right time?
Is Kelly ready for a new challenge? Yes, but is she ready for the challenge of playing for a big club like City? Again, Yes. She’s got all the talent to become a top player and regular international.
She could well still end up at Arsenal but would have to admit to playing second fiddle to Vivianne Miedema which would stagnate her career massively.
There is also arguably more pressure playing for the Gunners than City, because of the history and expectations of the two clubs in the women's game.
What awaits her next move?
Know matter where Kelly goes next it will be a challenge for her to no longer be a bigger fish and a smaller pond but to have to challenge a number of players for game time.
She’s bided her time from being released at Arsenal to perfecting her craft at Everton and now seems the best time for her to move onto a new challenge and test herself possibly in European fixtures.
Her ability to sniff out a chance and knowing when to drop in-behind the defender and went to come short and make space for others to go beyond her is something hard to train a striker.
Kelly has the ability and talent to make it at a City or an Arsenal, which seem the two realistic forward steps in her career, but she needs a manager to put faith in her and trust in the youngster to lead the line and deliver the goals.