Departure confirmed before new season
Manchester United Women’s manager Marc Skinner has left his post by mutual consent before the Women’s Super League season. The 43-year-old spent five years in charge and led the club to its first major trophy, the Women’s FA Cup, in 2024. He also guided United to the Champions League group stage for the first time last year and to runners-up finishes in three domestic cup finals. United confirmed the exit on Monday morning and thanked Skinner for his professionalism, commitment and dedication.[S1][S2][S4]
Skinner’s departure comes a month before the season opener, with United set to travel to London City Lionesses on 4 September at 19:00 BST. The former Birmingham City head coach had raised concerns about a lack of investment, and United had a quiet summer transfer window. The club has shifted its recruitment approach to target younger players for sustainable long-term success, and BBC Sport reported in July that the girls’ academy will train at Carrington this season.[S1][S2]
Supporters have grown frustrated while rivals Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea added to their squads. London City Lionesses, who finished fifth last season, signed two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, and Lyon defender Alice Sombath joined Tottenham. The club and Skinner held discussions in the summer and reached a mutual agreement. Sources say United are advanced in their search for a replacement, with background checks already completed; a key requirement is a coach with a history of developing players.[S1][S2][S3]
A turbulent tenure
Skinner’s time at United was full of ups and downs, and he never fully won over a passionate fanbase. Criticism reached an all-time high in 2024, when supporters brought banners to Leigh Sports Village calling for his sacking. He replaced former England defender Casey Stoney in 2021, who quit over frustrations at a lack of investment. That concern recurred throughout Skinner’s reign, and he often pointed to limited squad depth after defeats to top-three rivals.[S1][S2][S4]
United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe faced backlash over his comments on the women’s team, and there was outrage at training facilities in 2024, which Skinner defended. Skinner did not have the same resources or playing budget as other WSL managers, yet he secured two top-three finishes during his five-year spell, which meant Champions League qualification. Last season he challenged the club more on spending and made clear he wanted more backing.[S1][S2]
Despite that, supporters often criticised him for a lack of bravery in big matches, stubbornness with team selection and a limited number of homegrown players progressing from the academy into the first team. Failure to qualify for this season’s Champions League affected the transfer window, and although he signed a new contract last year until 2027, with an option of a further year, relationships no longer seemed harmonious.[S1][S2]
Previous roles and reaction
Before joining United from Orlando Pride, Skinner had spent three years in charge of Birmingham City’s women’s team. United’s statement said he had made a significant contribution to the continued progress of the women’s team and thanked him for his professionalism, commitment and dedication. The club said it wished him every success in the future.[S4]
