Man Utd boss Olid shrugs off criticism after winless start
Manchester United Women's manager Eva Olid says criticism after two opening WSL defeats is normal and part of the job. She is implementing a new possession-based style but the team has struggled. Olid remains confident in the long-term direction despite the poor start.
Olid’s appointment followed Marc Skinner’s departure, and her early tenure has been marked by a stark tactical shift. United have registered fewer than 40% possession and just two shots on target across their opening two WSL games, while conceding seven goals. The team’s sole goal came in the 2-1 loss to London City Lionesses, before a 5-0 home defeat to Chelsea.
The manager acknowledges the need to preserve the defensive structure Skinner built, which carried United to a Champions League quarter-final. She admits players may be overthinking as they juggle old habits with her new possession-focused approach. Arsenal’s Renee Slegers noted Olid has had “so little time,” suggesting the transition requires patience rather than immediate results.
This story could shape perceptions of managerial transitions in women’s football, where patience is often scarce. Fans and pundits may judge Olid harshly after two defeats, potentially affecting player confidence and recruitment. However, her long-term framing could normalize rebuilding periods, influencing how other clubs handle similar changes. The outcome may also impact United’s season trajectory and the broader competitive balance in the WSL, though early results remain a limited sample.