The WSL’s all-time leading scorer ended her seven-year association with Arsenal due to her ambition of ‘winning the league.’
The 27-year-old striker completed a free transfer to last season’s runners-up, signing a three-year deal.
Rumours had circulated for weeks that Miedema was on the verge of a move north after announcing her intention to quit the Gunners.
But fans were left bemused after hearing of Miedema’s new shirt number at the Joie Stadium.
That’s because it was revealed that the striker has swapped the No.11 shirt worn at Arsenal for the unfamiliar No.6 shirt traditionally donned by centre-backs or holding midfielders.
And it’s not the first time players have taken up odd shirt numbers that do not reflect their position.
Ex-Fulham forward Clint Dempsey wore No.2, French defender William Gallas chose the No.10 shirt at Arsenal while LIverpool’s Champions League-winning striker Milan Baros donned the No.5 shirt.
Mystified fans immediately took to social media to voice their opinions on Miedema’s number and it’s fair to say it may take some getting used to.
One Arsenal fan wrote: “Giving Miedema the number 6… that might be weirder than actually seeing her in a City kit.”
Another added: “Miedema 6 is odd but wishing her all the best.”
A delighted City fan posted: “What a move this is from Manchester City! Seeing Miedema in the 6 shirt will take some getting used to, but this is a serious statement from the Cityzens.”
And the sentiment is shared by Miedema who admits she can’t wait to get started at her new club and is already targeting top honours.
“The reason I chose City is because they have the same ambitions as me. They want to win the league and titles,” Miedema said.
“Looking to the future, I’ve always said I want to play with the best players in the world and I think City have got that. I haven’t played as much football as I would have wished over the past two years, but I think and hope my best years are still to come. I hope I’m going to be able to help the team as much as I can do.
“I do think this is the place to be right now. In the end, it was an easy choice for me. I want to challenge myself every day in training, but also every single week in the games we play.”
Meanwhile, Manchester City head coach, Gareth Taylor, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming Viv to City and seeing her flourish over the next three years. Our ambition is to compete on the highest stage and for the highest honours, and Viv is aligned to this desire.
“She’s a top talent that I’m excited to work with as she’s a player I’ve always admired. Viv will be a real asset to the team.”
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