Toone grateful to Skinner after his Man Utd departure

What the report says

Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone has publicly thanked former manager Marc Skinner after his departure from the club, saying she will always be grateful for the support he gave her during the period after her father died in September 2024. The comments came at United’s pre-season media day at Carrington, shortly after Skinner left the Women’s Super League club by mutual consent following five years in charge.

BBC Sport reported that Skinner’s spell at United brought notable progress on the pitch, including the club’s first major trophy, the 2024 Women’s FA Cup, and a first run into the Champions League knockout stage. His exit also follows a disappointing league finish last season, when United came fourth and missed out on European qualification.

Toone said Skinner helped her both personally and professionally, describing him as someone who offered space to be herself on the pitch while also being a steady presence off it. Captain Maya le Tissier also praised him, saying he gave her the captaincy and brought her to the club as a young player. United have said they expect to appoint a new manager soon, with the new WSL season only weeks away, as the club faces uncertainty over squad changes and its broader commitment to the women’s team.