Manchester City Goalkeeper Khiara Keating Denies Drug Charge

Manchester City and England goalkeeper Khiara Keating has appeared in court facing charges related to the possession of nitrous oxide canisters. The 20-year-old athlete, who is making waves in women’s football, stood alongside her mother, Nicola Keating, 48, as they both denied the accusations.

The case arose from an investigation by Greater Manchester Police, with the charges being brought against them on June 18. During their court appearance at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court, both women confirmed their not guilty pleas and were granted unconditional bail.

Nitrous oxide, often referred to as laughing gas or “hippy crack,” was classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in November 2023. This change made it illegal to possess the gas with the intent to inhale it for psychoactive effects, although it can still be used for legitimate purposes, like in catering or pain relief during childbirth.

Prosecutor Jonathan Potter explained that the Keatings are accused of possessing the canisters for wrongful inhalation, a serious matter that has drawn attention. The hearing showed the focus on the legal ramifications of this particular substance.

Khiara Keating, who hails from Ashton Old Road in east Manchester, previously played for Manchester United before being scouted by Manchester City. Last season, she had an impressive performance, keeping nine clean sheets in 22 league games while helping her team finish second to Chelsea in the Women’s Super League.

Although she hasn’t yet made her senior debut for the national team, Keating has received call-ups to represent the England Lionesses and has played at various youth levels, showcasing her talent on the international stage.

The court scheduled the next hearing for September 10, where a district judge will fix a date for the trial, keeping both women awaiting the outcome of this significant case.