The Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) has announced its star players for January 2025, with Manchester United’s Ella Toone crowned Player of the Month, Chelsea’s Sonia Bompastor winning Manager of the Month honors, and Vivianne Miedema of Manchester City taking home the Goal of the Month award. The recognition highlights the exceptional performances of these athletes during the league's competitive January matches.
Ella Toone had a standout month, scoring four goals, including a breathtaking hat-trick during the 4-2 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. This match marked the league's return following the winter break and showcased Toone’s exceptional skill on the field. She opened the scoring with a clever flick over the City keeper, Khiara Keeting, and followed up with two opportunistic goals stemming from defensive errors. Her final goal of the month came against Brighton, securing another win for the Red Devils.
Toone’s performance outshone her competitors, which included notable players like Nathalie Björn, Millie Bright, and Bethany England. This is her second time receiving the WSL Player of the Month award, her first being back in December 2021. Her remarkable form is setting the pace for the rest of the season and proving pivotal for Manchester United as they vie for top honors.
Meanwhile, Sonia Bompastor’s managerial prowess was on full display as she secured her third Manager of the Month award of the season. Under her leadership, Chelsea continued their impressive run, achieving two clean sheet victories—5-0 against West Ham United and 1-0 against title rivals Arsenal. The latter victory was particularly sweet, coming in front of 34,302 fans at Stamford Bridge, where Guro Reiten’s late penalty clinched the match for Chelsea.
Bompastor's strategic decisions and tactical brilliance were evident throughout the month as Chelsea maintained their position at the top of the WSL table, seven points clear of Manchester United. Her feedback on the team’s performance was both optimistic and strategic: 'We are pleased with how the team executed our game plan and the support from our fans was sensational.' With these results, she not only celebrated her third monthly award but also set a club record for the most points accumulated at this stage of the league.
The award for Goal of the Month was awarded to the Dutch forward Vivianne Miedema for her exquisite strike during the match against Aston Villa. Following her equalizer, Miedema executed a remarkable shot from outside the box, curling the ball perfectly past the Villa goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo. Miedema’s goal has been described as 'vicious and unstoppable,' which epitomizes her status as the WSL’s all-time record goalscorer.
Despite facing stiff competition from players like Olivia Smith and Catarina Macario, Miedema’s goal was voted the best for January, reinforcing her role as one of the league's most feared strikers. Her ability to change games with her technical skill continues to make her integral to Manchester City’s title ambitions.
The recognition of these three individuals, Toone, Bompastor, and Miedema, shines light on the growing talent and exciting developments within women’s football. Their performances not only contribute to their teams’ success but also inspire fans and upcoming athletes within the sport.
Following these accolades, the WSL looks forward to continuing its momentum as more thrilling matches and standout performances from league players await as the season progresses.