Marc Skinner Manchester United 2023-24Getty Images

Man Utd Women set for big shake up! INEOS planning significant summer changes amid rising pressure on manager Marc Skinner following WSL defeat to Arsenal

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Article continues below

Article continues below

  • United fell 3-1 to Arsenal
  • INEOS plans significant changes in the club hierarchy
  • Skinner is not under immediate pressure
  • Sir Jim Ratcliffe Sir Alex Ferguson Man Utd TottenhamGetty

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    According to Daily Mail, Polly Bancroft, who was appointed as the head of women's football in October 2022, might face the axe in the summer. Reports suggest that there have been concerns about disorganization behind the scenes, prompting INEOS to prioritize streamlining processes related to transfers and contract negotiations.

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  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Matt Hargreaves, United's transfer negotiator, and Harvey Bussell, the women's player recruitment lead, were brought into the fold to assist Bancroft. Moreover, Sam Barnett was also brought on board from the men's side to provide support during the summer. But these measures have failed to have the desired impact which has forced INEOS to take a review of the situation.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Recent financial disclosures by the club shed light on their investments in the women's team, which show that they have spent £517,000 on transfers during the 2022-2023 campaign, with an additional £817,000 spent until the end of the 2023 calendar year. Despite these investments, the team's performance has not met expectations, with a defeat against Arsenal leaving them trailing 10 points behind joint leaders Chelsea and Manchester City, and seven points outside European qualification spots.

  • Mary Earps Manchester United women 2023-24Getty

    WHAT NEXT?

    Manager Marc Skinner, whose contract expires in the summer, also allegedly remains under scrutiny. However, the club continues to insist that they have confidence in the 40-year-old, and there is no immediate pressure on him despite the recent setbacks. Skinner will once again lead his troops on March 3 against West Ham in the WSL.