Eva Olid to become new Manchester United manager

Manchester United are reportedly closing in on appointing Eva Olid as their new manager as the club prepare to move in a different direction ahead of the new season.

The anticipated arrival follows the departure of a long-serving figure on Monday, with frustrations over the level of investment contributing to the decision to part ways.

United now intend to reshape their squad around home-grown prospects, placing youth development at the centre of their plans while attempting to remain competitive at the highest level.

The Telegraph have reported that Olid has been identified as the coach best suited to replace Marc Skinner and oversee the transition with the Women’s team, with an agreement believed to be close and the players eager for a swift appointment.

Skinner left the club by mutual consent following five years in charge, reportedly amid frustration over United’s limited investment in the women’s team.

Olid emerged as the leading candidate after guiding Hearts to the Scottish league title last season and securing qualification for the Champions League.

The 40-year-old joined Hearts in 2021 after the club had finished bottom of the division, only avoiding relegation because the league was expanding.

She helped stabilise the team and oversaw its transition from amateur to professional football before completing that development with last season’s title triumph.

Olid previously coached the men’s and women’s under-19 teams at Houston Dynamo. Her experience working with young players is reportedly among the principal reasons United believe she can lead their proposed change of direction.

The Spaniard will have only four weeks to prepare for the new Women’s Super League campaign, with United facing London City Lionesses on the opening night.

United also want to sign a winger and centre-back before the transfer window closes, although Olid is expected to operate with a limited budget.

The players were reportedly informed of her expected arrival on Tuesday but were not involved in the appointment process.

Captain Maya Le Tissier has stressed the importance of quickly installing Skinner’s successor so the senior squad, summer signings and emerging academy players can prepare together.

Ella Toone also promised that the players would fully support the incoming coach, while highlighting the need to develop United’s young talent and introduce the attacking football traditionally associated with the club.