Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter breaks down the most pressing issues emerging from the second round of Women’s Super League fixtures, drawing readers into the narratives that shape the modern women’s game. Manchester United experienced a watershed under former manager Marc Skinner. After clinching their first major silverware in 2024, Skinner guided the team to the Champions League quarter‑finals in their inaugural European adventure and saw them reach three domestic cup finals. All signs pointed to a club on an upward trajectory, a platform to build upon.
The reality today could not be more different. Skinner has departed, and United now sit at the very bottom of the WSL table, sporting a goal‑difference that is worse than that of newly promoted Charlton Athletic.
After several years of measured progress, the side appears to be in clear decline. United are currently enduring their longest winless streak in the league since the team was re‑established in 2018 – six matches without a victory. Their opening two defeats, a small sample size but nonetheless telling, have exposed deep‑seated problems.
The bruising losses have put immediate pressure on new boss Eva Olid, who is only two games into her tenure. It would be unfair to lay the blame solely at Olid’s feet. She inherited a squad beset by issues that run far deeper than two poor results.
After a 5‑0 drubbing by Chelsea – a team that fielded no recognised striker – Olid said, "I don’t like the heads down. Heads up and we have to continue." Her defiant tone reflects the need to rally, but it also hints at underlying doubts about the support she receives from the club hierarchy. Internally, conversations about resources and backing may already be taking place, as the lack of confidence on the pitch mirrors the broader hesitancy the club has shown toward its women’s programme. Criticism of United’s investment – or lack thereof – has been a constant theme.
The decision to focus on youth development, a cheaper model, rather than bring in established stars this summer was cited as a key factor in Skinner’s departure, which was publicly described as a mutual separation. The 43‑year‑old manager had repeatedly asked for greater tools and authority, requests that were apparently met with resistance.
If the challenges facing Olid were not obvious before, they have now been laid bare in a stark fashion. United have matched the record for the fewest shots taken by a non‑newly‑promoted side in their opening two games, a dubious distinction they share with Leicester City from the 2022‑23 season, a campaign that ended in relegation. Every club needs a period of adjustment after a managerial change, but United’s situation is especially grim. They have failed in all 14 attempts to beat Chelsea in the WSL, and the recent 5‑0 loss is simply another chapter in a long‑standing nightmare.
Winning against Chelsea has been virtually impossible, and losing by such a margin is equally rare for United. The solid foundation that Skinner built now feels shaky. United’s next match is against Arsenal, broadcast live on Sky Sports next Saturday. The team has so many areas to improve that it is hard to know where to begin – perhaps the only direction is upward.
Olid cannot afford to let performances deteriorate further. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s victory was a pointed reminder of their collective strength. After being criticised for a 1‑1 draw with Aston Villa, Sonia Bompastor’s side responded emphatically, with Bompastor noting, "When you have the opportunity to really hurt a team, the best way to respect them is to score as many goals as you can." Chelsea showed no mercy, exploiting United’s frailties.
The Blues’ full‑backs Katie McCabe and Ellie Carpenter provided width, while Lucy Bronze pushed forward from centre‑back, creating space for Lauren James. James, Chelsea’s talisman, registered 19 shots across two games – the highest in the league – and proved why she can function as a false nine when the team lacks a traditional striker. Bompastor will need to manage James wisely, as over‑reliance on any one player is risky. Chelsea’s schedule is demanding, with upcoming clashes against Arsenal and Lyon in the Champions League.
Neither opponent is likely to be as generous as United. On the other side of the league, Arsenal’s midfield has attracted attention, particularly the resurgence of Lauren Stanway.
Returning to the WSL after a stint with Bayern Munich, Stanway has already completed 98 passes on her debut and amassed 194 passes across the first two matchweeks, 91 of which were into the final third – a league‑leading figure. Her precision opens new avenues for Arsenal and reduces the reliance on Mariona Caldentey as the sole creative outlet.
Stanway’s four key passes helped Arsenal break through against Crystal Palace, although Alessia Russo failed to capitalise on many of those chances. Overall, the early weeks of the season have highlighted a widening gap between the league’s elite and those still finding their footing. United’s struggles underline the consequences of limited investment and a lack of experienced personnel, while Arsenal’s midfield renaissance shows how strategic player development can pay dividends.
As the campaign unfolds, both clubs will need to address their respective challenges quickly if they hope to avoid a season of disappointment. Play Super 6 for a chance to win £1m! Enter for free.