Vivianne Miedema is shining again: ‘Everything’s a bonus now’ at Manchester City
If you haven't been watching women's football over the last few months, you've missed out. Not just on some goals or assists, but on the resurgence of one of the greatest talents the Netherlands has ever produced. Vivianne Miedema is back. And not just a little bit. The Manchester City striker and all-time top scorer for the Dutch national team is playing with that freedom and joy that once made her so irresistible. It's like a weight's been lifted off her shoulders.
Finally feeling free again
If you've followed her in recent years, you saw a player who was struggling. With injuries, with expectations, with her own headspace. But the Vivianne we see now is one who smiles, who dictates play on the pitch, and most importantly, who's enjoying it again. Chatting to people around her, you keep hearing the same thing: everything feels like a bonus now. She's genuinely looking forward to celebrating, to cheering with her teammates, to giving the fans a reason to turn up. That pure enjoyment radiates from her, and it's reflected directly in her game.
Staying in Manchester: 'This is where I want to be'
So it came as no surprise when she extended her deal with Manchester City. In a football world where players are often chasing the next big thing, Miedema has deliberately chosen stability and trust. 'There's nowhere I'd rather be right now than at City,' she said. It's a statement that speaks volumes. At The Citizens, she's found an environment where she feels valued, not just as a goal-scorer, but as a person. That connection has been key to her return to top-shelf form.
More than just a football name
Funny enough, the surname Miedema is everywhere in the Netherlands, but in all sorts of different ways. On the pitch, it's obviously Vivianne calling the shots. But away from the game, you come across the name all over. Moving house? You give Ophaaldienst Miedema a call. Need new specs? You pop into Miedema Optiek. And who knows, maybe there's a younger brother on the rise: whispers on the local park pitches suggest a certain Lars Miedema is making a name for himself in the youth ranks. The name lives on, but for now, Vivianne is the one flying the flag on the biggest stage.
The numbers don't lie
What hasn't she achieved? Just in case you need a quick refresher:
- All-time top scorer for the Netherlands – by far the most prolific goal-scorer ever, for either the men's or women's team.
- Record holder in the English league – in her prime years, she scored for fun and set records that will stand for years.
- Two-time FA Cup winner and Women's Super League champion.
- In 2026, firmly back in the starting XI at Manchester City, making the difference week in, week out.
What's next: teaming up with the Oranje
With her contract extension and that rediscovered love for the game, the path is clear for a bright future. National coach Andries Jonker would no doubt be grinning from ear to ear seeing her play like this. With tournaments on the horizon, the Dutch team can't do without a fit and happy Miedema. She's the anchor, the player who lifts the younger talents and gives defenders nightmares. If she says she's looking forward to celebrating again, then we as fans are also looking forward to those moments when she can do it with us. The big bonus? We get to enjoy it for a good while yet.