Manchester City forward Iman Beney has been shortlisted for the 2026 Golden Girl award following an impressive debut season in England that saw her contribute to the club’s Women’s Super League and FA Cup triumphs.
The 20-year-old is one of ten nominees for the prestigious individual award, organised by Italian newspaper Tuttosport to recognise the best under-21 talent in European women’s football.
Beney’s nomination reflects her rapid rise since joining City after helping BSC YB Frauen secure the Swiss league title during the 2024/25 campaign.
Beney Makes Her Mark at Manchester City
Beney made an immediate impression in her first season in blue, recording two goals and ten assists across all competitions as City enjoyed a successful campaign.
Her first goal for the club came in a dramatic 3–2 victory over Arsenal at the Joie Stadium in October 2025. She followed that up with another strike against Liverpool later that month, delivering an eye-catching performance that further underlined her attacking potential.
The Swiss international has also demonstrated her versatility, featuring 28 times for City as either a full-back or an attacking option on the right flank.
That ability to contribute in different positions has helped establish her as an increasingly important member of Andrée Jeglertz’s squad.
Golden Girl Nomination Recognises Her Progress
The Golden Girl award celebrates emerging talent across European football, with Beney now competing against nine other highly rated young players for the 2026 honour.
Her inclusion on the shortlist provides further recognition of a breakthrough year in which she combined individual progress with major team success.
The winner is expected to be announced in early November.
Full 2026 Golden Girl Shortlist
The ten nominees are:
- Iman Beney — Manchester City
- Veerle Buurman — Chelsea
- Giulia Galli — Barcelona
- Azzurra Gallo — Toulouse
- Smilla Holmberg — Arsenal
- Maeline Mendy — Paris FC
- Sydney Schertenleib — Barcelona
- Felicia Schröder — Real Madrid
- Clara Serrajordi — Barcelona
- Alara — FC Bayern Women
With two trophies secured during her first season at City and a growing influence within Jeglertz’s team, Beney’s nomination marks another milestone in her development.
The Manchester City youngster will now hope to cap her progress with individual recognition when the Golden Girl winner is announced in November.
