Top of the WSL and now with a fully fit Lauren Hemp back in the squad — Manchester City’s title push just got even stronger.
After two months out with an ankle injury, the England winger eased back with a substitute appearance in last week’s win over Everton.
But her first start since returning showed she is already back to her brilliant best.
Hemp tormented Manchester United throughout at the Etihad, crowning a superb performance with a thunderous strike into the top corner just before the break as City cruised to a 3–0 victory.
The result strengthens City’s position at the summit, opening up a four-point cushion over Chelsea, who face Liverpool on Sunday.
“It feels amazing to be back,” Hemp told BBC Sport.
“We showed the mentality we needed, kept a clean sheet, and got the three points. We know we’re in a good place but we have to stay humble.”
City have coped well during Hemp’s absence thanks to the developing partnership between Khadija Shaw and Vivianne Miedema, but having their star winger available again gives manager Andrée Jeglertz even more attacking firepower.
From the opening whistle, Hemp immediately pinned full-back Jayde Riviere deep, driving forward repeatedly and whipping dangerous balls across goal.
Her corner delivery led to Rebecca Knaak’s opener, Shaw added the second, and Hemp smashed in City’s third to complete a dominant first half.
Jeglertz praised her impact: “Lauren gives us something different. With every touch she’s looking to go forward, deliver, or take on the full-back. She was outstanding.”
United boss Marc Skinner admitted Riviere struggled to contain Hemp: “She gave Lauren too much respect and showed her onto her left foot. But Hemp can punish you regardless — that’s her quality.”
City have carefully managed Hemp’s recovery, allowing her to build sharpness in training before throwing her back into the starting XI.
Her timing is ideal, with an international window approaching and Sarina Wiegman naming her England squad next week.
Former Lioness Anita Asante believes Hemp’s return will elevate Shaw’s already impressive form: “Shaw thrives with Hemp in the side because she delivers the kind of service strikers dream of.”
Against United, only Shaw took more shots, while Hemp spent most of the match camped in the attacking half, constantly stretching the defence.
Her goal was her first in the league this season and her first since October 2024.
With Hemp firing again and City top of the table, the champions-elect look stronger than ever.
