The Manchester derby in November seemed to create a shift. After losing 3-1 at Old Trafford, the team looked less than comfortable in the league. Rather than sparking a change in approach to try and overturn their poor start, United regressed, heading into a poor run of games. A big loss at United’s iconic stadium. their biggest occasion at that point, set the tone for the rest of the season. It was the perfect chance to stake their claim on the title once again, and they had ample opportunity to ensure they would walk away with three points.
Whether it was the occasion or the pressure, something shifted after that game, and United failed to look like the side that went toe-to-toe with Chelsea last season. January should have been a reset for the side following the winter break, but a 3-1 loss to Chelsea early on, followed by a 2-1 loss to City in the Conti Cup meant even their wins over Brighton and Leicester felt lacklustre and pointless, having slipped out of contention for the title by February.
The knock-on effect of the turbulence behind the scenes has had major consequences for members of Skinner’s squad. The dysfunctional dynamic has meant several players have regressed in their abilities, with one even losing a place among her national team due to the inconsistencies and poor performances.
Maya Le Tissier plays as a centre-back for her club but right-back for England. After a tough campaign, the 22-year-old was not called up for England’s 2025 Euros qualifying games against Sweden and the Republic of Ireland, whilst her defensive partner, Millie Turner, earned consecutive call-ups and made her England debut. Ella Toone has struggled at club level in the past two seasons. Despite showing up for England and becoming the first player in either the men’s or women’s games to score in the quarters, semis and final at a major tournaments, her contributions for United have dwindled.
Similarly, Earps has dipped in form, leaking poor chances and struggling with the depleted backline. Naalsund signed for the club in January 2022 and, after recovering from injury, took almost a year to break into the first team. Since then she became the favoured midfielder alongside Toone and captain Katie Zelem. The Norway international has arguably been United’s best player despite their recent poor performances. Her quick decision-making and ability to orchestrate the tempo has been a saving grace for the side, especially when their grip on games began to slip away.
Unlike Naalsund, summer signing Geyse has struggled since moving from Barcelona, failing to make much impact on the team. Unable to break through defences and pinpoint passes and crosses, the Brazilian forward is probably the player who has suffered the most. Whilst some players have relished the opportunity to step up in the uncertain times, others have been greatly affected by the tumultuous season, which could have lasting impacts on their careers and could determine whether they leave the club at the end of the season with several, including Earps and Le Tissier out of contract in just a few months.
Not only has Skinner seemingly lost the support of some of his team, but he has lost the backing of the fans, making the decisions over his future and clubs even more complicated.
