Vivianne Miedema is shining again: 'Everything is a bonus now' at Manchester City
If you haven't watched any women's football in the past few months, you've truly 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 Dutch national team top scorer is playing again with the freedom and joy that once made her so irresistible. It's as if a weight has been lifted off her shoulders.
Finally at ease mentally
Anyone who has followed her in recent years saw a player who was struggling. With injuries, with expectations, with her own mind. But the Vivianne we see now is one who smiles, who dictates play on the pitch, and, most importantly, is enjoying herself again. In conversations with those around her, the same message keeps coming through: everything feels like a bonus now. She looks forward to celebrating again, to cheering with teammates, and to giving the fans something to come for. That joy radiates from her, and it translates directly into her game.
Staying longer in Manchester: 'This is where I want to be'
It was no surprise, then, that she extended her contract with Manchester City. In a football world where players often chase 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 declaration 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 to her return to top form.
More than just a football name
Interestingly, the Miedema surname is everywhere in the Netherlands, but in the most diverse ways. On the pitch, it's, of course, Vivianne who calls the shots. But outside of it, you encounter the name all over. Moving house? You call Miedema Removals. Need new glasses? You step into Miedema Opticians. And who knows, a younger brother might be emerging soon: whispers on the amateur pitches suggest a certain Lars Miedema is making quite a name for himself in the youth ranks. The name lives on, but for now, Vivianne remains its 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 Dutch national team – by far the most prolific goal scorer ever, men's or women's.
- 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 line-up for Manchester City, making a difference week in and week out.
Looking ahead: Together with Oranje
With her contract extension and rediscovered love for the game, the path is clear for a bright future. National coach Andries Jonker will undoubtedly be smiling watching 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 younger talents and gives defenders nightmares. When she says she's looking forward to celebrating again, we as fans also look forward to the moments she can do that with us. The real bonus is that we get to enjoy it for a long time to come.