In December, Sir Jim Ratcliffe described Manchester United’s women’s team as an “opportunity”.
Since taking over as the club’s co-owner, Ratcliffe has made a series of comments that appeared to indicate an indifference and disinterest in their affairs. But, however he meant it, Ratcliffe was not wrong when he used the word opportunity.
United’s 2-0 victory over rivals Manchester City on Sunday saw them reach a third successive FA Cup final at Wembley. They won the competition last year and will retain the trophy if they can get past Women’s Super League leaders Chelsea, who are chasing a quadruple. United, in third, are seven points clear of fourth-placed City in the league and are on course to qualify for the Champions League.
Ratcliffe has maintained that his main focus since taking over has been the men’s team, but he admitted earlier this year that the women are performing better. Yesterday was another example of why Marc Skinner’s side deserve to be backed.
Grace Clinton rises highest for @ManUtdWomen! 🔝🔴#AdobeWomensFACuppic.twitter.com/tFfxt1qkOf
— Adobe Women's FA Cup (@AdobeWFACup) April 13, 2025
It has not been easy for Skinner, who signed a new two-year contract, with the option for an extra year, earlier this month. He had to deal with the fall-out of United moving the women’s team out of their training facility to accommodate the men in the summer. He has also had to answer questions about Ratcliffe’s clumsy remarks. Skinner is competing with clubs that spend more money – United did not break the bank on transfers in the summer and only signed a reserve goalkeeper in January – and he is doing it all while being unpopular with a large section of the fanbase.
Despite the team’s FA Cup triumph, many supporters wanted Skinner sacked last season after United finished fifth, their lowest position in WSL history. While sections of the fanbase remain unconvinced, there is no denying United are enjoying a much better campaign this time around. They have conceded the fewest number of goals in the WSL and, barring a 3-0 defeat at Liverpool, their performances have been consistent. If they can keep this team together and add to it in the summer, there is no reason why they cannot compete for more trophies.
Omar Berrada, the club’s chief executive, and Collette ...
