Manchester United Women's new head coach Eva Olid has received firm assurances from the club's ownership about investing in the team to chase trophies. The 41-year-old Spanish coach, appointed after Marc Skinner's departure, stated the message from the club is clear: they aim to win.
Olid's comments, reported by The Athletic this week, come as United prepare for their Women's Super League campaign after finishing fourth last season. The team ended the 2025 campaign with 40 points from 22 games, scoring 38 goals and conceding 22. They were 15 points behind champions Manchester City, highlighting the gap they aim to close.
What investment has been promised?
Eva Olid said the club's commitment extends beyond just signing players. "The message has always been that we want to invest, but in everything, not just on players," she explained. This includes backing for the right coaching staff and infrastructure to support her vision. The club, under the football operations led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is focused on a sustainable model that also develops younger talent.
Ratcliffe, the English billionaire with a 29 per cent stake in United, has faced criticism for previously stating his primary focus was the men's team. Olid's reassurances suggest a shift in emphasis. "The message is that they want to win, it’s not that now we just develop, no, they want to win," Olid stated. She added that her task is to make that happen while building a solid team identity.
How has the squad changed this summer?
United have made four signings during the recent transfer window, reacting to the change in management. Defender Andrea Medina, backup goalkeeper Janina Leitzig, Swedish winger Monica Jusu Bah, and Mexico defender Rebeca Bernal have all joined. Jusu Bah and Bernal were announced in the final week of the window, with Bernal set to be available for Friday's match against London City Lionesses.
Olid confirmed the club's business is done for this window, with plans for further signings in January. She acknowledged the short pre-season of just three weeks meant she had limited time to assess the squad fully. The need for players that fit her specific attacking game model will guide future recruitment, differing from the profile sought by her predecessor. You can view the updated roster on our squad page.
What style of football will United play?
The alignment on playing philosophy was a key factor in Olid's decision to join Manchester United. The club wants to play attractive, attacking, and brave football. They have committed to supporting the coach and taking risks consistent with that style. Olid said she was signed for that reason and must remain faithful to it.
Her vision is unequivocally centered on 'attacking football'. This approach will be tested quickly in the new season. While she would not specify season targets beyond wanting to win every match, the context is clear. Rivals like Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton are strengthening, increasing competition for the top spots in the standings.
What are the challenges ahead?
Some observers worry that a focus on youth development, coupled with significant player departures last summer, could see United fall behind the league's leading clubs. Olid's immediate challenge is communicating her vision and implementing her model with the existing group before the January window offers a chance to refine the squad further.
The team's final form last season was mixed, with a sequence of loss, draw, draw, loss, and win in their last five games. Building consistency will be vital. The first test of the new era is imminent, with Rebeca Bernal in line to make her debut against London City Lionesses this Friday. Fans can follow the team's progress through our fixtures schedule.
