Olid promises 'brave' Man Utd with new-look style

What the report says

Manchester United women’s new manager Eva Olid has told her squad to be brave and play with an attacking mindset as she prepares for her first Women’s Super League match in charge. The Spaniard, who joined from Hearts after Marc Skinner stepped down in the summer, will take United to London City Lionesses for Friday’s season opener. BBC Sport reports that her arrival has come amid doubts about United’s ability to push for the top three, following a quieter transfer window and broader questions over the club’s support for the women’s team.

Olid said she believes in what the team can build over time and pointed to her success with Hearts, where she helped guide the Scottish club to a first league title last season. She said United’s style this year will be different from last season’s and stressed that the club wants attractive, brave football even if that approach carries risks. She also said she has adjusted some ideas for the opening game so the side can compete immediately.

The BBC notes that United are entering a new phase under Olid, with a greater focus on youth development and a clearer attacking identity. The report adds that club sources view her as highly dedicated and expect her work ethic to set a standard for younger players. More broadly, the match is seen as an early test of whether United can answer criticism about their ambitions and begin the season with a more defined style.