Manchester United are poised to appoint Eva Olid, the former Hearts manager, as their new head coach, following the departure of Marc Skinner earlier this week. Sources indicate that negotiations with the 40-year-old Spanish coach are at an advanced stage, and she is expected to be formally introduced to the squad imminently.

Olid’s appointment comes as part of Manchester United’s strategic shift toward nurturing young, homegrown talent and emphasizing long-term development through their academy system. The club has sought a fresh approach after Skinner’s exit, which was announced on Monday amid reported frustrations over the team’s transfer policy. United view current spending levels in the Women’s Super League (WSL) as unsustainable and intend to adopt a model focused more on internal growth.

Eva Olid brings a strong track record to her new role, having guided Hearts to their first Scottish Women’s Premier League title in the previous season. Her leadership culminated in a dramatic conclusion to the campaign, and she also led Hearts to the 2024 Scottish Cup final, where they were runners-up to Rangers. Olid’s departure from Hearts had been confirmed in April by mutual agreement after five years at the helm.

Her coaching résumé includes experience in the United States with Houston Dynamo’s women’s team as well as their under-19 men’s squad, and a stint with the Catalan Football Association. Manchester United have reportedly been impressed by her playing style and her ability to develop and enhance player performance, having conducted thorough background checks before deciding to replace Skinner.

Under Skinner’s management, United finished fourth in last season’s WSL and secured the 2024 Women’s FA Cup. Both the team captain, Maya Le Tissier, and fellow England international Ella Toone acknowledged Skinner’s contributions. Le Tissier highlighted the positive energy he brought to the club, while Toone noted that Skinner had informed the squad of his departure personally before it was made public, allowing for a proper farewell.

Manchester United will begin their new WSL campaign on September 4, with an away fixture against the London City Lionesses, a club noted for significant investment. Le Tissier expressed confidence that the team would remain unified and prepared ahead of the season despite the recent management change.