The short version
- Ella Toone credits Marc Skinner with providing crucial emotional support following the death of her father in late 2024.
- Maya Le Tissier acknowledges Skinner for bringing her to the club and awarding her the captaincy before his mutual departure.
- The squad faces a new season with five departures, limited transfer spending, and an incoming manager focused on youth development.
Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone has publicly expressed deep gratitude toward former manager Marc Skinner following his departure from the club. The separation occurred by mutual consent after five years at the helm of the Women's Super League side. Toone emphasized that her appreciation extends beyond tactical decisions, citing the significant personal support she received during a profound family tragedy.
Skinner’s tenure included notable achievements such as guiding the team to their first major trophy, the 2024 Women's FA Cup, and reaching the Champions League knockout stage for the first time. Despite these successes, the club finished fourth in the previous league season, missing out on European qualification. This result contributed to criticism from sections of the fanbase and ultimately led to his exit.
Toone revealed that Skinner played a pivotal role in helping her cope with the death of her father in September 2024. She described him as a shoulder to cry on who simultaneously provided her with the freedom to express herself on the pitch. Their relationship involved honest conversations that helped her return to giving everything for the team during one of the most difficult periods of her life.
Team captain Maya Le Tissier echoed these sentiments, noting that while there were challenges, there were also many positive moments under Skinner’s leadership. She highlighted two specific honors she attributes to him: being brought to the club as a young player and eventually receiving the captaincy. Le Tissier described these milestones as among the greatest of her career.
The players addressed the media less than forty-eight hours after Skinner’s departure, having heard his final words in the changing room on Monday morning. Both Toone and Le Tissier stated that they have not been consulted regarding the appointment of a new manager. The club has indicated that a successor will be named soon, with the start of the 2026-27 season only a month away.
Reports suggest the incoming manager will likely prioritize developing young players, aligning with a renewed focus on youth recruitment at United. This strategy comes as the club has spent significantly less on new signings this summer compared to many rivals in the WSL. The squad is currently navigating a period of transition with five first-team players leaving, including key striker Melvine Malard, who joined Chelsea.
Uncertainty surrounds the level of investment in the women’s team, particularly following criticism directed at co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe for his perceived attitude toward women’s football. He notably did not attend either of the team’s Women's FA Cup final appearances at Wembley. Despite these external pressures and doubts about financial backing, the players insist the squad remains united.
Toone and Le Tissier called on supporters to continue backing the team through this transitional phase. They emphasized a family-like atmosphere within the group that has persisted through tough moments over the years. Both players expressed confidence that once a new manager arrives, the team can focus on enjoying the game and executing their roles effectively.
The upcoming season presents a different journey for the experienced leaders in the squad. Toone noted that despite feeling young at twenty-six, she and Le Tissier must step up as leaders. They remain prepared to adapt to whatever philosophy the new coach implements, aiming to give one hundred percent effort regardless of the tactical changes ahead.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Sport↗Toone grateful to Skinner after his Man Utd departure
