Former Birmingham head coach Marc Skinner has been named as the new manager of Manchester United Women.
Following the 38-year old’s resignation last week from the US side Orlando Pride, speculation emerged that he would replace Casey Stoney who left in May at the FA Women’s Super League club. On Thursday, United confirmed that Skinner had signed on a two-year contract with an option for an additional year.
Skinner told the club’s website: “I’m looking forward to working closely with the staff and this talented group of players. Our focus is to build on everything they have already achieved in the women’s game.”
“It’s an exciting opportunity to lead the team into what will be another competitive WSL season. I want us to achieve success together and our aim is to give the fans a team they can continue to be proud of.”
Having coached the Red Devils to their second straight fourth-place finish in the top tier of women’s football, Stoney stepped down in May. During his eight years as a coach, Skinner made his way through the ranks at Birmingham before leading them in the Women’s Super League.
Then, at the start of 2019, he departed for Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League. Aoife Mannion and Martha Thomas were added to the Red Devils roster this summer, while Jane Ross and Abbie McManus have departed the club. Football director John Murtough has worked closely with both the new players.