Manchester City entered the final hours of the Women’s Super League transfer window with a clear agenda: find a creative replacement for Vivianne Miedema, who is expected to miss the rest of 2026 with a knee injury. The club’s two primary targets were Spain’s attacking midfielder Fiamma Benítez and Everton forward Ornella Vignola. Both moves collapsed, leaving City with limited options as the deadline loomed.
Atlético Madrid blocks City’s bid for Benítez
According to reports from the Guardian, Manchester City tabled a bid that topped £500,000 for Benítez. The offer was turned down by Atlético Madrid, who are unwilling to part with the Spanish midfielder at this stage of the season. The rejection means City will have to look elsewhere for a player who can fill the creative void left by Miedema’s absence.
Everton hold firm on Ornella Vignola
City’s second pursuit, Ornella Vignola, proved equally elusive. Everton have resisted all approaches, keeping the forward in their squad as the English summer window closed at 11 pm BST on Thursday. Vignola’s continued presence at Goodison Park further narrows City’s pool of immediate replacements.
Why Miedema’s injury matters
Vivianne Miedema has been a cornerstone of City’s attack since joining the club in 2022. Her knee problem, which is expected to keep her out for the remainder of the calendar year, forces the champions to rethink their attacking strategy. Without a proven No 10, City risk losing the fluidity that has defined their recent WSL campaigns.
City’s transfer strategy under pressure
City’s failure to secure either Benítez or Vignola highlights the challenges of the WSL market this summer. Clubs are increasingly protective of their assets, and the financial landscape remains cautious after several high‑profile deals in recent seasons. The £500,000 figure offered for Benítez indicates City’s willingness to invest, but Atlético’s refusal suggests they value the player beyond a single‑season cash injection.
Looking ahead for the champions
With the window now closed, Manchester City must rely on internal solutions and tactical adjustments. Manager Pep Guardiola may look to promote younger talent from the academy or reshuffle existing personnel to cover the creative gap. The club’s depth will be tested in upcoming league fixtures and European commitments.
In the short term, City’s inability to land a direct replacement could affect their title defence. Opponents will sense a vulnerability in the midfield, and the pressure will be on the squad to adapt quickly. The situation also underscores the growing competitiveness of the WSL transfer market, where clubs like Atlético and Everton are not easily swayed.
City’s missed opportunities expose a lack of contingency planning. Relying on a single high‑profile signing was risky, and the club now faces a tactical dilemma that could cost them crucial points.
Without Benítez or Vignola, City will likely shift to a more collective build‑up approach, leaning on midfielders to create chances. Their league rivals stand to benefit from the reduced creative threat in Manchester’s attack.
Preguntas Frecuentes
Atlético Madrid rejected a bid of more than £500,000 from City, keeping the Spanish midfielder at the club.
Miedema is expected to miss at least the rest of 2026 due to a knee injury.
No, Everton held on to Vignola and did not agree to any transfer before the window closed.