In a significant development just weeks before the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 kicks off, England and Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating has had criminal charges against her formally dropped, bringing an end to a legal ordeal that lasted nearly a year.
The 20-year-old had been facing charges related to the possession of nitrous oxide—commonly known as “laughing gas”—which was officially classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in November 2023. Keating, who had consistently maintained her innocence, expressed relief and gratitude after the Crown Prosecution Service decided to discontinue the case.
“I’m relieved the charges have been dropped. As I’ve always said, I did nothing wrong,” Keating told BBC Sport in an exclusive statement. “It’s been a difficult time, but I’ve always known the truth. Now I’m just looking forward to focusing fully on the Euros and spending time with my family.”
The Case
Keating was initially charged on 18 June 2024 following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police. She appeared in court a month later, in July, alongside her mother Nicola Keating, 48, who also faced the same charge. Both pleaded not guilty and were granted unconditional bail.
The case was brought under the revised laws concerning nitrous oxide, which now criminalize possession when it is intended for inhalation to achieve a psychoactive effect. Despite its new classification, the substance remains legal for specific uses such as in culinary practices and medical procedures, including pain relief during childbirth.
On Thursday, Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the case had been dropped, citing insufficient evidence to proceed with a trial. The decision comes as a major boost for Keating, who can now fully concentrate on her footballing commitments with both club and country.
Rising Star
Keating has not yet featured for England at senior level but is one of the three goalkeepers named in Sarina Wiegman’s 23-player squad for Euro 2025. Her inclusion speaks to the high regard in which she is held by the national team’s coaching staff, particularly after a standout season with Manchester City.
Last year, Keating made headlines when she became the youngest ever recipient of the Women’s Super League Golden Glove, keeping nine clean sheets in 22 appearances. Her performances helped City mount a serious challenge for the league title and established her as one of the most promising goalkeepers in European football.
Now with the legal proceedings behind her, Keating is expected to serve as either a backup or rotational option in goal during the Euros, learning from more experienced goalkeepers while also preparing for a long-term role with the Lionesses.
Reactions and Looking Ahead
Support has poured in for Keating from teammates, fans, and pundits alike. Manchester City Women issued a brief statement, saying, “We are pleased that the matter concerning Khiara has been resolved. Khiara has our full support as she continues her preparations for the European Championships.”
Football analysts have also pointed out that this episode could serve as a powerful personal experience for the young keeper, helping her develop the mental resilience necessary to thrive at the top level.
England will begin their Euro 2025 campaign next month, with high expectations following their triumph at the 2022 edition and a runners-up finish at the 2023 World Cup. While Keating may not be the starting goalkeeper, her presence in the squad adds depth and quality in a critical position.
For Keating, the future once again looks promising. With her name cleared, she can now focus on writing the next chapter in what is already becoming a remarkable football career.
In a significant development just weeks before the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 kicks off, England and Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating has had criminal charges against her formally dropped, bringing an end to a legal ordeal that lasted nearly a year.
The 20-year-old had been facing charges related to the possession of nitrous oxide—commonly known as “laughing gas”—which was officially classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in November 2023. Keating, who had consistently maintained her innocence, expressed relief and gratitude after the Crown Prosecution Service decided to discontinue the case.
“I’m relieved the charges have been dropped. As I’ve always said, I did nothing wrong,” Keating told BBC Sport in an exclusive statement. “It’s been a difficult time, but I’ve always known the truth. Now I’m just looking forward to focusing fully on the Euros and spending time with my family.”
The Case
Keating was initially charged on 18 June 2024 following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police. She appeared in court a month later, in July, alongside her mother Nicola Keating, 48, who also faced the same charge. Both pleaded not guilty and were granted unconditional bail.
The case was brought under the revised laws concerning nitrous oxide, which now criminalize possession when it is intended for inhalation to achieve a psychoactive effect. Despite its new classification, the substance remains legal for specific uses such as in culinary practices and medical procedures, including pain relief during childbirth.
On Thursday, Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the case had been dropped, citing insufficient evidence to proceed with a trial. The decision comes as a major boost for Keating, who can now fully concentrate on her footballing commitments with both club and country.
Rising Star
Keating has not yet featured for England at senior level but is one of the three goalkeepers named in Sarina Wiegman’s 23-player squad for Euro 2025. Her inclusion speaks to the high regard in which she is held by the national team’s coaching staff, particularly after a standout season with Manchester City.
Last year, Keating made headlines when she became the youngest ever recipient of the Women’s Super League Golden Glove, keeping nine clean sheets in 22 appearances. Her performances helped City mount a serious challenge for the league title and established her as one of the most promising goalkeepers in European football.
Now with the legal proceedings behind her, Keating is expected to serve as either a backup or rotational option in goal during the Euros, learning from more experienced goalkeepers while also preparing for a long-term role with the Lionesses.
Reactions and Looking Ahead
Support has poured in for Keating from teammates, fans, and pundits alike. Manchester City Women issued a brief statement, saying, “We are pleased that the matter concerning Khiara has been resolved. Khiara has our full support as she continues her preparations for the European Championships.”
Football analysts have also pointed out that this episode could serve as a powerful personal experience for the young keeper, helping her develop the mental resilience necessary to thrive at the top level.
England will begin their Euro 2025 campaign next month, with high expectations following their triumph at the 2022 edition and a runners-up finish at the 2023 World Cup. While Keating may not be the starting goalkeeper, her presence in the squad adds depth and quality in a critical position.
For Keating, the future once again looks promising. With her name cleared, she can now focus on writing the next chapter in what is already becoming a remarkable football career.
