The Women’s Super League (WSL) has become one of the most competitive and exciting football leagues in the world, with Manchester United’s women’s team emerging as one of the most intriguing and talked-about sides in recent years. However, as the 2024/2025 season continues, the question remains: Will the real Manchester United stand up? For a team with such potential, consistency has been a challenge, and while there have been moments of brilliance, there have also been times where the team has underperformed or fallen short of expectations.
Under the stewardship of Marc Skinner, Manchester United Women have undergone significant development. With a blend of established stars and emerging talent, they have positioned themselves as genuine contenders in the WSL. Yet, despite their obvious strength, they have struggled to assert themselves as the dominant force in the league. This has led to a series of talking points, key discussions, and even debates on their true potential in the competition.
In this article, we delve into the key talking points surrounding Manchester United’s women’s team in the WSL, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and the road ahead for the club. From tactical approaches to player performances, the dynamics within the squad, and the overall ambition of the club, let’s break down the factors that will determine whether Manchester United Women can truly emerge as WSL champions.
The Search for Consistency Can United Maintain Their High Level of Play
Manchester United Women’s inconsistency has been a recurring theme over the last few seasons. There have been flashes of brilliance – thrilling performances where they have outclassed opponents, with fluid attacking football, solid defense, and an impressive work ethic. However, these high points have often been followed by disappointing defeats or underwhelming draws, particularly against teams lower in the table. In the 2023/2024 season, the Red Devils finished a respectable 4th in the league, but that was not enough to challenge for the title. The key issue was a lack of consistency. United’s ability to perform against the so-called “big teams” in the league was impressive, but they struggled against sides they were expected to beat. Against mid-table clubs and those fighting relegation, Manchester United often dropped points, which ultimately cost them a higher position in the league.
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Key Questions
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- How can Marc Skinner ensure his team remains consistent throughout the season?
- What adjustments need to be made to turn occasional brilliance into sustained success?
Marc Skinner has a wealth of talent at his disposal, but achieving consistency is crucial. The squad must develop a more stable and reliable rhythm in their performances, not just in high-profile matches but in every game they play. For Manchester United Women to challenge for the WSL title, they need to find a way to maintain their focus and deliver results week in, week out.
The Evolution of Marc Skinner Tactics and Squad Development
Marc Skinner has been instrumental in Manchester United Women’s rise to prominence. Since his arrival in 2021, Marc Skinner has brought a new tactical approach to the team, emphasizing possession-based football, pressing high up the pitch, and fluid attacking movements. His work has been crucial in elevating the team to one of the top sides in the WSL.
However, as with any manager, questions arise about how Skinner adapts his tactics to counteract the various challenges that arise during the course of a season. One of the main talking points for Manchester United is whether Skinner’s approach is enough to compete with the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City, who have consistently been the powerhouses of the league.
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Key Questions
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- How adaptable is Marc Skinner’s tactical philosophy in tight matches or against more defensive teams?
- Has Skinner found the right balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity?
Skinner’s ability to adapt his tactics will be tested, particularly in high-pressure situations. Manchester United Women have the attacking talent to cause damage to any team, but they need to ensure that their defensive setup is solid and they don’t concede cheap goals when under pressure. Additionally, Skinner will need to find a way to bring out the best in his squad’s attacking players, ensuring they can break down stubborn defenses.
The Star Players Who Will Lead Manchester United Women to Glory
No conversation about Manchester United Women is complete without discussing the players who will be expected to lead the team. In recent seasons, United has built a squad brimming with talent, but the question remains: who will step up to become the true standout player in this team?
One player who has unquestionably been central to United’s success is Ella Toone. The English international has been in sensational form for her club, consistently contributing with goals and assists. Toone’s ability to control the tempo of a game, combined with her creative flair, makes her an integral part of Skinner’s plans. However, despite her brilliance, there are times when Toone has seemed isolated in matches, particularly when opposing teams shut down her space in midfield.
Alongside Toone, Alessia Russo is a key figure for Manchester United. The forward has been a focal point in attack and has the potential to be a match-winner with her clinical finishing and intelligent movement. However, Russo’s form has also fluctuated, and she has not always delivered in the high-stakes moments. For Manchester United to reach the next level, Russo’s consistency and ability to perform in big matches will be vital.
Another player to watch is Hannah Blundell, whose contributions in the full-back role have been crucial both in defense and going forward. Blundell’s ability to deliver quality crosses and join in the attack offers United a significant edge. Additionally, Mary Earps remains one of the league’s best goalkeepers and will be central to Manchester United’s defensive foundation. Earps’ shot-stopping abilities and leadership at the back give United the security they need, especially in tight matches.
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Key Questions
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- Which players can emerge as true leaders and help drive the team forward in big moments?
- Can players like Ella Toone and Alessia Russo maintain their high level of consistency?
While these individuals have the ability to lead Manchester United to success, the team must come together as a cohesive unit. The pressure is on these key players to produce when it matters, and their performances will likely determine whether Manchester United can secure silverware this season.
Strengthening the Squad Areas for Improvement
Despite the quality of their current squad, Manchester United Women still have areas that need improvement if they are to compete with the best in the league. One of the most pressing concerns for Skinner is the depth of his squad, especially in certain positions.
While the attacking options are plentiful, United’s midfield depth is somewhat lacking. The team could benefit from a more dynamic central midfielder who can break up play, protect the defense, and also contribute creatively in the final third. United’s midfield has often looked vulnerable when opponents press high, and this is an area that could be strengthened in the transfer market.
Additionally, while the defense is relatively solid, United could do with another experienced central defender. Although Millie Turner and Maria Thorisdottir form a solid partnership, injuries or suspensions could leave them vulnerable, and adding depth to the defensive ranks will provide security.
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Key Questions
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- How can Manchester United address their midfield depth to enhance their creativity and ball retention?
- Will they look to add defensive reinforcements to make their backline even more solid?
Skinner has already made notable signings in recent seasons, but continuing to improve squad depth will be critical. With a long season ahead, injuries, fatigue, and suspensions will inevitably take their toll, and ensuring the team has quality replacements will be crucial for maintaining momentum.
The Title Challenge Is Manchester United Ready to Break the Glass Ceiling
Despite all the progress and potential, Manchester United Women have yet to claim the ultimate prize: the WSL title. Teams like Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City have dominated the league for years, and Manchester United has often found themselves on the periphery, just a few steps away from challenging for the top spot. The question on everyone’s lips is whether they are finally ready to break the glass ceiling and mount a serious title challenge.
There is no doubt that United has the quality and ambition to compete for the WSL title, but consistency, squad depth, and mental toughness will be the deciding factors. They need to prove that they can handle the pressure in key moments, particularly in matches against their direct rivals. If Skinner’s team can produce the performances required against the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal, they will have a real shot at the title.
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