Vivianne Miedema believes women’s football must remain true to its own identity as the game continues to grow.
The Manchester City midfielder warns against repeating the mistakes of men’s football, where toxic behaviour from certain fans has long overshadowed the sport.
In an interview with the Telegraph, she spoke about the growing amount of abuse in the women’s game.
Vivianne Miedema issues warning over women’s football
Vivianne Miedema told the Telegraph that women’s football “needs to be really careful not to just turn into the men’s game”.
She added: “Obviously, you’ve seen the boost in women’s football after England winning the 2022 Euros. I imagine it’s only going to be bigger after this summer, but [the important thing is] how we can keep it the same environment for everyone that’s involved.”
For Miedema, the rise in popularity should not come at the cost of what has made the women’s game unique: a more family-oriented and welcoming environment. She reflects with concern, pointing out that the sport is already facing challenges that threaten that atmosphere.
The Dutch international stresses that safeguarding the future of women’s football requires a joint effort. Clubs, governing bodies and the Women’s Super League all share the responsibility of protecting both players and supporters.
“How can we differentiate from the men’s game and keep our identity while still letting the game grow?” she asks. “I think it’s the responsibility all clubs together need to carry and the WSL needs to carry as well and hopefully we can make the right steps in that sense.”
She emphasises that protection must extend beyond the pitch. Social media abuse remains one of the most pressing issues, but Miedema also points to everyday experiences that illustrate the lack of respect players sometimes encounter. “You see it even in smaller things, in normal life. If I go for a coffee people would just grab my shoulder and be like, ‘Picture?’ and I’m like, ‘Pardon me? Can we just talk about this normally?’.”
Growing incidents of abuse in women’s football
A number of incidents exposed the unacceptable behaviour creeping into the stands during the 2024-25 season.
Taylor Hinds, then of Liverpool, endured “sexually inappropriate comments” while playing against Arsenal.
Miedema’s Manchester City team-mate Khadija “Bunny” Shaw has been targeted with racist and misogynistic abuse. Chelsea captain Millie Bright was confronted by an expletive-filled remark from a fan.
Beyond the stadiums, the problem has spread online. Social media has become another battleground for players, with Jess Carter and Lauren James among those who have spoken publicly about the hostility they faced during the Euros.
Carter was subjected to racist abuse during the Euro 2025 tournament, forcing her to take a break from social media.
As Manchester City chase silverware this season, Miedema remains equally committed to shaping the future of women’s football. The ambition on the pitch is clear, but so too is her determination to ensure the game does not lose what has made it special.
