Vivianne Miedema has revealed the heartbreaking reason behind her absence from Manchester City's Women's Super League title run-in, as she shared that her mother has been fighting for her life in intensive care after suffering serious complications from chemotherapy.
The Dutch striker missed City's last two WSL matches, but her teammates held up a shirt bearing her name and squad number as they celebrated being crowned champions on Wednesday night after Arsenal's draw with Brighton.
Miedema's Emotional Statement
The 29-year-old took to Instagram on Thursday morning to explain the family matter that has kept her away from the pitch. "The last 2.5 weeks have been really difficult for us as a family," she wrote. "My mum had serious complications after her chemo treatment for cancer and has been in the ICU since."
Miedema added: "She's been fighting for her life, and by some miracle, she is still here. Now she's fighting hard through the small steps of recovery, although there are still many big hurdles ahead."
The forward thanked fans for their support and ended with a poignant message: "PS. Can't wait to tell mum we won the league."
City's Title Triumph
Manchester City secured their first WSL title since 2016 after Arsenal, whose Champions League defence ended with a semi-final defeat to Lyon, could only manage a 1-1 draw with Brighton. The result means the Gunners cannot catch City, even with three games in hand.
Miedema, the all-time leading scorer in WSL history, contributed 10 goals in 19 appearances this season to help City claim the crown. Her absence in the final weeks was felt, but her teammates ensured the title was won, allowing her to share the joy with her recovering mother.
