Manchester United’s women’s team has demonstrated notable resilience amid ongoing challenges related to investment and squad depth. Unlike their male counterparts, the women’s squad has faced persistent constraints that have impacted their competitiveness, particularly when compared with clubs such as Manchester City, Arsenal, and Chelsea.

Over recent years, Manchester United Women have contended with a smaller squad and limited spending in comparison to their top rivals. The effects of these limitations were evident during last season, as the team struggled to manage the demands of competing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League alongside domestic competitions. The frustrations culminated in the resignation of head coach Marc Skinner in the summer, citing dissatisfaction with the club’s lack of reinforcements. Eva Olid was appointed as his successor just one month before the start of the new campaign.

The team’s early performances under Olid reflected the challenges of transitioning to a new style of play. Manchester United suffered a loss to London City Lionesses on the opening day, followed by a heavy 5-0 defeat against Chelsea. In response, Olid and the squad engaged in candid discussions about their approach, leading to a strategic shift away from high-risk tactics towards a more balanced, pragmatic style of play.

Since making these adjustments, Manchester United Women have remained unbeaten, including a notable come-from-behind 1-1 draw against Manchester City. In that match, Manchester United took the lead through Shaw in the 66th minute before City equalised late, with Terland scoring in the 89th minute.

The summer and early season disappointments initially manifested in visible frustration among the players, especially during the defeat to Chelsea, when the team appeared disheartened for significant portions of the game. However, their subsequent turnaround has been marked by renewed determination and improved cohesion, which coach Olid attributes to open communication and collective effort.

“It has been a lot of hard work to change that and a lot of honest conversations about what we could do to change it and how we could connect,” Olid said. “I think we had that connection. It was a hard week after Chelsea. Sometimes you need to stand firm and get your head down and work and that’s what we have done.”

The progress of the women’s team under these difficult circumstances stands in contrast to the struggles still faced by the men’s side, highlighting the resilience and commitment within the women’s squad despite structural challenges at the club.