Vivianne Miedema is shining again: 'Everything is a bonus now' at Manchester City
If you haven't been following women's football in recent months, you've genuinely missed out. Not just on a few goals or assists, but on the remarkable 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 forward and all-time top scorer for the Dutch national team is playing again with the freedom and joy that once made her so unstoppable. It's as if a huge weight has been lifted off her shoulders.
Finally at peace mentally
Anyone who has followed her over the last few years saw a player who was struggling. With injuries, with expectations, with her own state of mind. But the Vivianne we see now is one who smiles, who dictates play on the pitch, and most importantly, who is enjoying herself again. In conversations with those around her, the same message keeps coming through: everything feels like a bonus now. She genuinely looks forward to celebrating, to cheering with her teammates, and to giving the supporters something to come for. That pure joy radiates from her, and it directly translates into her performances.
Staying longer in Manchester: 'This is where I want to be'
It came as no surprise, then, that she extended her contract with Manchester City. In a football world where players are often chasing the next move, Miedema consciously chose stability and trust. 'There's no place I'd rather be right now than at City,' she stated. It's a statement that speaks volumes. At The Citizens, she has found an environment where she feels valued, not just as a goal-scorer, but as a person. That connection has been essential for her return to top form.
More than just a football name
Interestingly enough, the surname Miedema is everywhere in the Netherlands, but in the most diverse ways. On the pitch, it's of course Vivianne who's in charge. But away from it, you come across the name all over. Need to move houses? Then you call Miedema Removals. Need new spectacles? You step into Miedema Opticians. And who knows, perhaps a younger brother is emerging soon: there's already a buzz on the amateur pitches about a certain Lars Miedema who's making quite a name for himself in the youth ranks. The name lives on, but for now, Vivianne remains the standard-bearer on the biggest stage.
The numbers don't lie
What hasn't she achieved? For those who need a quick refresher:
- All-time top scorer for the Netherlands – by far the most prolific goal-scorer ever, across both the men's and women's teams.
- Record holder in the English league – during her best years, she scored for fun and set records that will stand for years to come.
- Two-time FA Cup winner and Women's Super League champion.
- In 2026, she's firmly back in the starting lineup for Manchester City, making a difference week in and week out.
Looking ahead: together with the Dutch team
With her contract extension and her rediscovered love for the game, the path is clear for a bright future. National coach Andries Jonker will undoubtedly be beaming when he sees her play like this. With major tournaments on the horizon, the Dutch team cannot do without a fit and happy Miedema. She is the anchor, the player who lifts the younger talents and gives defenders nightmares. When she says she's looking forward to celebrating again, then we as fans also look forward to the moments when she can do that with us. The real bonus is that we get to enjoy her brilliance for a long time to come.