New Manchester United Women manager Eva Olid has promised a brave, attacking style of football as she prepares for her first match in charge. The Spanish coach, who took over from Marc Skinner this summer, will make her debut in the Women's Super League season opener against London City Lionesses on Friday at 19:00 BST, as reported by the BBC.
Olid's arrival marks a new direction for a team that finished fourth in the FA WSL last season, amassing 40 points from 22 games with a record of 11 wins, seven draws, and four losses. Their final stretch saw a mixed run of form, ending LDDLW, and they concluded the campaign 15 points behind champions Manchester City W. The team scored 38 goals while conceding 22, resulting in a solid +16 goal difference.
What is Eva Olid's football philosophy?
Eva Olid has made her intentions clear from the outset. She wants her Manchester United Women side to play with an attacking mindset focused on exploiting opponents' weaknesses. "It's normal, no? It's normal to have people doubting. I have felt the support a lot of too," Olid said this week, addressing external skepticism. Her ambition is to implement a style distinct from last season's approach, though she admits she may temper some principles initially to ensure competitiveness. The club's hierarchy specifically hired her to deliver attractive, brave football, fully aware of the inherent risks involved.
Can United challenge after a quiet transfer window?
Frustration among supporters is reportedly high following an underwhelming summer transfer window. Questions persist about the club's ambitions and the level of attention from owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, especially given a budget significantly smaller than rivals like Arsenal and Chelsea. This context creates doubts about United's ability to secure a top-three finish this season. However, Olid draws confidence from her past achievements. "People that followed me in the last years with Hearts know I made something impossible possible, so I believe in what we are going to do," she stated, referencing her successful tenure in Scotland.
How will Olid develop the squad?
Central to Olid's project is a focus on developing young players and building a clear attacking identity. In her first meetings with the English media, she came across as an astute tactician obsessed with the game. Sources within the club describe her as 'football obsessed' and believe her ruthless work ethic will set a powerful example for emerging talents. She has been reunited with her former assistant, Gavin Beith, and has already hinted at recruitment plans for the January window that will better suit her desired style of play. Fans can track the evolving squad composition on the official squad page.
What are the immediate challenges?
The immediate task is Friday's trip to face London City Lionesses. Olid wants the team's performance to align as closely as possible with her long-term vision from the very first whistle. While the style will evolve, the mandate for courage is immediate. The team's broader objectives and their progress in the league can be followed via the standings throughout the season. Building on last term's fourth-place finish, the aim will be to close the gap to the top three. Manchester United Women begin their 2026-27 WSL campaign away at London City Lionesses on Friday, September 6th.
