Eva Olid, the newly appointed manager of Manchester United Women, is set to usher in a bold new era for the team with a strong emphasis on attacking football. Having previously led Hearts to their first Scottish league title, Olid is ready to make her mark in the Women’s Super League as United prepares to face London City Lionesses in their season opener on Friday at 19:00 BST.
Olid steps into her role following the departure of Marc Skinner, who left the club this summer. The transition comes at a time when many supporters have expressed concerns regarding the club's ambitions, especially given a relatively quiet transfer window that has led to skepticism about United's chances of finishing in the top three this season.
In response to the doubts surrounding the team, Olid acknowledged the skepticism but expressed confidence in her vision for the squad. "It’s normal to have people doubting. I have felt the support a lot too. People that followed me in the last years with Hearts know I made something impossible possible, so I believe in what we are going to do. It’s not something you get in weeks, but I believe with a little time you get impossible things," she stated.
Olid’s ambition is clear: she aims to instill an attacking mindset within her players. Despite a pre-season that did not meet expectations, she is hopeful that her team can rise to the occasion when they take to the pitch on Friday. "My ambition is attacking football. I focus the game plans on how we can hurt the teams. All teams have weaknesses we can exploit," she elaborated, emphasizing her desire for the team to play in a manner that is both attractive and effective.
As Olid gears up for her first competitive match, she recognizes the challenges that come with implementing a new style of play. "This team will play the first match in the league, and I want it to be as close [as possible] to what I want. The style of play is different from what we had last year. You can imagine it’s not an easy task," she explained. The club's commitment to playing brave football aligns with her vision, and she feels supported in her approach.
Olid's appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Manchester United, as frustrations among fans have reached new heights. Concerns have been raised about the club's commitment to the women's team and the perceived lack of investment from owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, particularly when compared to rivals like Arsenal and Chelsea. The smaller budget has led many to question whether United can compete effectively this season.
However, Olid's track record of success and her focus on developing young talent suggest a promising future for the club. Described by sources as "football obsessed," her dedication and tactical acumen are expected to inspire the next generation of players. With the support of her former assistant coach Gavin Beith, Olid is already looking ahead to potential recruitment strategies that align with her attacking philosophy.
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