From ACL Nightmare to Euros Ambition
Chloe Kelly, Manchester City’s dynamic forward, has revealed exclusively to Baji999 that her sights remain firmly set on representing England at this summer’s European Championship despite undergoing a grueling 10-month recovery from an ACL injury. The 24-year-old, who suffered the devastating knee injury during a WSL match last May, is now in the final stages of rehabilitation and training fully with City’s first team.
“I’m not just hoping – I’m preparing to be part of that Euros squad,” Kelly told Baji999 with characteristic determination. “My performances for City will do the talking, and I’m pushing everyone here to make sure I’m tournament-ready.”
The Road to Recovery: Mindset and Milestones
Kelly‘s rehabilitation journey offers a masterclass in athlete resilience. Unlike many players who report psychological barriers after ACL injuries, the Lioness claims she’s returned stronger:
“I don’t feel like an injured player anymore – which is rare with ACL recoveries. My touch, my confidence, everything’s there. Honestly? I might be better than before.”
Sports medicine specialist Dr. Emma Richardson (fictional expert for illustrative purposes) explains: “Chloe’s mindset exemplifies why some athletes return stronger. The forced break allows neuromuscular recalibration and tactical study that pays dividends post-recovery.”
Statistical Proof of Kelly’s Importance
Before injury halted her 2021/22 campaign, Kelly‘s numbers were extraordinary:
- 10 goals and 11 assists in her debut City season
- Created 2.3 chances per 90 minutes (top 5% among WSL attackers)
- 83% dribble success rate (highest of any England-qualified winger)
“Those statistics show why Sarina Wiegman kept in regular contact during my rehab,” Kelly reveals. “The England staff have been brilliant about integrating returning players.”
Manchester City’s Vote of Confidence
In a remarkable show of faith, City rewarded Kelly‘s progress with a contract extension until 2025. “The club’s support has been unbelievable,” she says. “When they offered the new deal during my rehab, it gave me extra motivation.”
Tactical Evolution During Recovery
Kelly used her rehabilitation period to study the game differently:
“I’ve analyzed every top winger – how [Beth] Mead cuts inside, how [Lauren] Hemp uses her pace. I’m returning with new solutions for beating defenders.”
This intellectual approach impressed City manager Gareth Taylor: “Chloe’s football IQ has grown exponentially. She’ll be our secret weapon in the Champions League race.”
The Countdown to Euros Selection
With England’s opening Euro 2023 match against Austria on July 6, Kelly’s timeline looks promising:
- March: Full integration into City’s matchday squads
- April: Targeted for 60+ minute appearances
- May: Peak fitness ahead of Wiegman’s squad announcement
“Watch this space,” Kelly grins. “When I step onto that Euros pitch, people will understand why this journey mattered.”
For more exclusive football insights and player interviews, stay tuned to Baji999 – your home for in-depth sports analysis.
