Jess Park bags WSL award after stunning start to Man Utd career as Man City boss Andree Jeglertz also recognised

Park has made an instant impact at Manchester United since her cross-city move from Manchester City, and her performances throughout October have earned her the WSL Player of the Month award. The 21-year-old midfielder played a starring role in United’s 1-1 draw against reigning champions Chelsea, completing the most dribbles and duels in the match. She then followed that up with a brilliant two-goal cameo off the bench in a 4-1 comeback win against Everton, where she was named Player of the Match.

Her energetic style has already made her a fan favourite at Old Trafford, with Park also ranking in the WSL’s top 10 for goal-creating actions and successful take-ons this season. While her October ended on a disappointing note after suffering a delayed concussion that ruled her out of the England squad, her influence on United’s attack has been undeniable. Park’s rapid adaptation under Marc Skinner highlights her potential to become a cornerstone of United’s midfield for years to come.

This recognition marks Park’s first individual WSL honour since making her professional debut, further solidifying her status as one of English football’s brightest young stars. The award was voted for by a mix of supporters and a panel of experts, with Park edging out fellow nominees including Lynn Wilms, Jana Fernandez, Lize Kop, Iman Beney, and Aoba Fujino.

Manchester City head coach Jeglertz also received recognition for an exceptional 30 days, being named WSL Manager of the Month for October. His side continued their perfect league form, extending their winning streak to five matches after victories over Arsenal and Liverpool. The month began with an 88th-minute winner from Iman Beney in a thrilling 3-2 win over Arsenal, followed by a resilient 2-1 comeback at Anfield thanks to late goals from Beney and Fujino.

Under Jeglertz’s guidance, City have emerged as one of the most entertaining and dominant attacking teams in the league. His blend of tactical flexibility and composure under pressure has been key to maintaining their title challenge, as they ended October just one point behind Chelsea. As of the international break, City’s 17 league goals made them the most prolific team in the WSL.

Jeglertz’s success also marks a significant personal achievement for the Swedish coach, who only took charge earlier this year. Competing against strong nominees such as Jocelyn Precheur of the London City Lionesses, the City boss’s leadership has reinforced his growing reputation as one of Europe’s most forward-thinking managers in the women’s game.

The Goal of the Month award went to Aston Villa winger Kirsty Hanson for her spectacular strike against West Ham United on October 5, 2025. With the game finely balanced at 0-0, Hanson exchanged a quick short corner with Lynn Wilms before driving toward the edge of the box and unleashing a thunderous left-footed effort into the far top corner. The goal was a defining moment for Villa, sealing their first WSL win of the season in a 2-0 triumph.

Hanson’s strike showcased her trademark combination of power and precision — a reminder of her attacking quality and importance to Carla Ward’s team. The Scottish international’s moment of brilliance beat out several impressive nominees in the public vote, including Wilms’ stunning free-kick from the same game. The award adds another highlight to Hanson’s season, reinforcing her status as one of the WSL’s most technically gifted forwards.

The October awards collectively underline the growing depth of talent in the women’s game, from Park’s emergence as United’s creative spark to Hanson’s goal-scoring heroics and Jeglertz’s tactical excellence at City. Each winner played a defining role in shaping one of the most competitive months of WSL football this season.

Both Manchester clubs will aim to carry their momentum into November as the WSL title race intensifies. For United, Park’s form could prove crucial as Marc Skinner’s side looks to close the gap on the top three while maintaining attacking consistency in her absence. Her eventual return to action will be eagerly awaited, given the impact she has already made in red.

Manchester City, meanwhile, will look to maintain their strong run under Jeglertz as they continue to challenge Chelsea for top spot. With attacking stars like Beney and Fujino hitting form, the Joie Stadium outfit appear well-equipped for a sustained title push. Elsewhere, Aston Villa will hope Hanson’s wonder goal sparks a resurgence after a slow start to the campaign.