Chloe Kelly’s name is noticeably absent from Sarina Wiegman’s England squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Portugal and Spain.
The England manager made it clear that Kelly’s limited game time this season was a key factor in the decision.
With just one start in the Women’s Super League, Wiegman felt the winger hadn’t played enough to warrant selection.
Fallout with Manchester City and Move to Arsenal
Kelly’s season has been turbulent, marked by her dramatic departure from Manchester City at the end of January.
The 27-year-old did not hold back in her criticism of City, accusing the club of attempting to “assassinate her character” and spreading “false accusations” following a breakdown in their relationship.
With her contract set to expire this summer, Kelly secured a last-minute loan move to Arsenal until the end of the season.
She has already stated that she does not expect to return to City once her loan spell in North London concludes.
Focus on the Euros Despite Exclusion
Despite missing out on this England call-up, Kelly remains determined to secure a spot in Wiegman’s squad for the upcoming European Championships.
She acknowledged that her lack of playing time was a concern but emphasized her commitment to being in top form for the summer tournament.
“With the Euros fast approaching, this summer is a huge one, and I want to be in the best possible position to represent my country,” Kelly said.
“It has always been a source of great pride for me, and it’s truly an honor.”
Wiegman, while leaving Kelly out of the Nations League matches, did not completely rule her out of the Euros.
She stated that the door remains open but stressed that Kelly needs to prove herself on the pitch.
“She hasn’t played enough, in my opinion,” Wiegman explained.
“Start playing and show what you’re about, and then we’ll have that conversation again.
We spoke yesterday, and she’s not out of the running for the Euros—we’ll revisit it.”
Squad Updates and Upcoming Matches
While Kelly misses out, Chelsea’s Lauren James and Niamh Charles make their return to the Lionesses squad, along with Brighton’s Nikita Parris, who earns her first call-up since November 2022.
Injury concerns continue to affect key players, with Georgia Stanway, Alex Greenwood, and Lauren Hemp all sidelined.
However, England will benefit from the return of Ella Toone, who is back in the squad after recovering from a calf injury.
The Lionesses are set to travel to Portugal for their February 21 clash in the Algarve before hosting Spain at Wembley on February 26.
The latter match is particularly significant, as it serves as a highly anticipated rematch of the 2023 World Cup final, where England suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat.
What’s Next for Kelly?
For now, Kelly’s priority will be proving herself at Arsenal and earning the game time needed to impress Wiegman.
If she can find form and consistency, a return to the England squad remains a real possibility.
The next few months will be crucial in determining whether she can make the Euros squad and reclaim her place among the Lionesses.
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