Keating Reflects on Childhood Club Ahead of Special Manchester Derby
The upcoming Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium holds a special place in the heart of Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating. As a born and raised Mancunian, playing at the home of her childhood club is a momentous occasion for the 19-year-old. Keating has had an exceptional breakthrough season, earning the position of Gareth Taylor’s first-choice keeper over internationals Ellie Roebuck and Sandy MacIver. In October, she received her first senior England call-up, and in February, she was named the Women’s Super League player of the month.
A Full-Circle Moment
The Manchester derby on Saturday will mark the return of WSL games at the Etihad since December 2022 when the two Manchester sides drew 1-1. For Keating, who started her career as a striker before transitioning to a goalkeeper, this moment is particularly special. “Growing up in Manchester, you’re either red or a blue,” Keating shared with BBC Sport. “I went from being a ball girl there when I was little to walking out of the tunnel. It’s going to be a special moment and a moment that I’ll have to take in.”
An Unforgettable Experience
Playing at her childhood club with the fans in attendance adds an extra layer of significance for Keating. She expressed her excitement, saying, “Walking out in my childhood club is going to be so special, especially with all the fans there – and we know what we have to do.” Keating understands the magnitude of a derby and acknowledges its unique atmosphere. “Every game is special, but the derby is always that little bit more special, it’s that rivalry,” she added.
A Role Model on and off the Pitch
Although Keating has yet to earn her maiden cap for Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses squad, she has had three call-ups so far. She will have the opportunity to face England’s number one goalkeeper, Mary Earps, during the derby. Keating spoke highly of Earps, describing her as “class, on and off the pitch.” She admires Earps as a role model for younger players like herself and recognizes her immense achievements in recent seasons. “She’s very special and doing a lot for the women’s game,” Keating commended.
Title Race and Redemption
Manchester City has already defeated Marc Skinner’s side twice this season, triumphing 3-1 in the WSL in November and 2-1 in the League Cup in January. However, they will need to secure another victory over their rivals to keep pace with league leaders Chelsea. Currently, the top two teams are separated only by goal difference. After being eliminated from both the League Cup and FA Cup in consecutive games, City’s sole focus is now on clinching their first league title since 2016.
The Goal is Clear
Keating expressed the team’s determination to win trophies and their disappointment at recent setbacks. “We know what we have to do in the league now, and it’s win all the games, score as many goals as we can, and keep clean sheets down the other end,” she stated. City is eager to redeem themselves from their cup exits and shift their focus entirely to the league. With a strong resolve and a talented squad, Keating and her teammates are ready to fight for success.
In Conclusion
The upcoming Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium is not just a significant match for Manchester City; it holds a special place in the heart of goalkeeper Khiara Keating. As a Manchester native, playing at her childhood club is a dream come true. Keating reflects on her journey from being a ball girl to walking out of the tunnel, acknowledging the importance of this moment. Facing England’s number one, Mary Earps, adds another layer of excitement to the derby. Manchester City’s aim is clear – to win the league and redeem themselves from recent cup exits. With Keating’s determination and the team’s unity, they are ready to seize victory and bring home the title.