Ella Toone grateful for her former manager Marc Skinner as Manchester United Women turn the page following his sudden departure, players said at the club’s pre-WSL season media day on Tuesday.
Toone and captain Maya Le Tissier said Skinner addressed the squad in the changing room on Monday morning to say his farewells before the announcement was made public.
“There have obviously been a lot of challenges but a lot of nice moments as well,” Le Tissier said. “It was sad, but we move on now. He brought me to the club as a kid, and gave me the captaincy, two of the greatest honours of my life. I have a lot to thank him for.”
United have indicated they expect to name a new head coach soon, with the start of the 2026-27 Women’s Super League season just a month away.
The club is understood to be targeting a manager with a strong record in developing young talent, aligning with a renewed emphasis on youth recruitment. United have spent considerably less on transfers this summer than several WSL rivals.
Toone and Le Tissier, two of the squad’s most experienced figures, said they have not been consulted on the appointment process. “We are not involved at all,” Le Tissier said. “We have heard it will be soon, which will be beneficial for us, we have our first pre-season game soon.”
Toone added that the group will adapt to a new philosophy. “We have both played under so many different managers with different philosophies, we know we will give 100% and buy into what they want. The club’s ambition is to bring through the youth but also look after the older ones in the group. I can’t believe that’s us, I’m 26, I’m not that old, but we are leaders so must step up. Whoever comes in it will be exciting and a different journey.”
It is a period of uncertainty for United after five first-team departures this summer, including key forward Melvine Malard to Chelsea, while Gabby George is set to join Brighton.
The turnover has unfolded amid questions about investment in the women’s side. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has faced criticism over his stance on the women’s game, including his absence from both of the team’s Women’s FA Cup final appearances at Wembley.
Even so, Toone and Le Tissier said the dressing room remains united and urged supporters to stay with them. “I have been here from the start, and there has always been that family feeling around the team,” Toone said. “We sit together in tough moments, there have been a few over the years. It might be difficult right now, but as soon as that new manager comes in we can knuckle down. We have to enjoy football and playing with each other.”
“Support the team no matter what, if you are proper fans you will be with us all the way,” Le Tissier said. “We give everything, and so did Marc.”
Ella Toone grateful message sets tone for next chapter
With the WSL opener approaching, United’s leadership group is focused on stability, a swift coaching appointment and integrating youth alongside experienced players.
The Women’s FA Cup final appearances at Wembley have been pivotal occasions for the club, drawing significant attention to the women’s game in England.
United’s focus on developing young talent mirrors broader trends seen across elite women’s sport, including high-profile events like the Commonwealth Games 2026 where emerging athletes often make their breakthrough on the international stage.
The scrutiny on co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has also intersected with his wider sporting investments through Ineos, adding another layer to debates about long-term backing for the women’s side.