by Bethany Monkhouse (18/11/24)
Above: Vivianne Miedema in action for Manchester City on her WSL debut at former club Arsenal. Photo: ESPN.
Dutch international Vivianne Miedema’s latest injury setback – surgery on her left knee – has had a frustrating impact on her settling in process at new club Manchester City.
After a hugely promising start as shown in her performances against Arsenal and Barcelona, this latest injury was a big blow to both player and club.
City boss Gareth Taylor has tried to allay fears about the injury, stating that it is “only a small niggle,” and “only a minor procedure,” was required in hospital, although he was unable to give an estimated return date for the star signing, but claimed she is in “high spirits.”
Miedema made an instant impact at Manchester City, scoring her first goal against Paris FC away in the club’s 5-0 win in the Champions League qualifiers. She also scored on her league debut against her former team away at The Emirates.
In addition, she provided an assist for Naomi Layzell’s goal by heading the ball back into the centre of the box for the English defender against the defending Champions League holders Barcelona. This was only the second time that the Catalans had failed to score in their last 80 matches.
In such a short space of time, Miedema has shown a spark that her new team very much needed. Her ability to put shots in on goal is second to none.
This spark is crucial because some key players for City have been below their highest standards. It’s also been a tough time for Sky Blues attacker Chloe Kelly who has only started two out of seven games for City this season, in all competitions.
Another advantage that Miedema brings to the team, is her versatility as both a playmaker position and a goal-scorer. For example in that Champions League qualifier against Paris FC, she was deployed in midfield and still managed to score the first goal for her team.
Starting her career as a left winger, and then adapting to the number nine role before moving to number 10, the Netherlands’ record scorer has experience in a range of positions. Having both record breakers Miedema and Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw linking up together is something that City fans cannot wait to see. WSL defenders may think differently.
Manchester City will be desperate to get Miedema back to full fitness – she on average scores a goal every 102 minutes she plays. This could prove vital for the North-West side to have the best chance of winning the league this season.
Her presence in the side also offers City real options for rotating the squad to compete in the League Cup, the FA Cup, and the Champions League.
Gareth Taylor believes that upon Miedema’s return, we will see an “enhanced and improved version” of her. The WSL and Champions League have been warned.
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