Marc Skinner leaves Manchester United Women before WSL season

Manchester United Women have parted company with manager Marc Skinner by mutual consent, with the new Women's Super League season just weeks away. The 43-year-old leaves after five years in charge, having guided the club to its first major trophy — the Women's FA Cup — in 2024. Under Skinner, United also reached the Women's Champions League group stage for the first time last season, though they finished as runners-up in three domestic cup finals.

Skinner's exit comes a month before the WSL campaign begins. United open their season at London City Lionesses on 4 September. The former Birmingham City boss had voiced concerns about a lack of investment in the squad, and United have had a relatively quiet summer transfer window. The club has shifted its recruitment strategy towards younger players, aiming for long-term sustainability. In July, BBC Sport reported that the girls' academy will train at Carrington, the club's main training facility, this season. Supporters have grown frustrated as rivals Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea strengthened their squads. Meanwhile, London City Lionesses, who finished fifth last season, signed two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, and Tottenham brought in Lyon defender Alice Sombath.

The club say they are advanced in finding a replacement, with background checks on candidates already complete. A key requirement is a coach with a track record of developing players.

Skinner's tenure was marked by highs and lows, and he never fully won over the fanbase. In 2024, supporters took banners to Leigh Sports Village calling for his dismissal. He replaced Casey Stoney in 2021, who had left due to frustrations over investment. That issue resurfaced repeatedly during Skinner's time, as he often cited a lack of squad depth after defeats to top-three rivals. Owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe faced criticism over his comments on the women's team, and there was outrage in 2024 over training facilities, which Skinner defended at the time.

Despite operating with a smaller playing budget than many WSL rivals, Skinner achieved two top-three finishes in five years, earning Champions League qualification — although United only progressed past the qualifying rounds last season. Critics accused him of lacking courage in big matches, being stubborn with team selection, and not promoting enough academy prospects. Failure to reach the Champions League this season also affected their transfer business. Skinner signed a contract extension last year, tying him to United until 2027 with an option for another year, but relations had become strained.