[ad_1]
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has admitted that plans for the Manchester United women’s team are still to be confirmed off the back of a turbulent and disappointing league season.
Despite winning their first major piece of silverware — the FA Cup — United endured a difficult season, finishing fifth. It was their lowest finish since promotion to the Women’s Super League (WSL) in 2019.
Ratcliffe praised the women’s FA Cup victory — a 4-0 win over Tottenham — but admitted that they have not begun planning for the women’s team, focusing on solving the issues on the men’s side first.
“We haven’t got into that level of detail with the women’s team yet,” he told Bloomberg. “We’ve been pretty much focused on how we resolve the first team issues, and that’s been pretty full time for the first six months.”
When asked if the plans were to be confirmed, Ratcliffe responded, “Correct.”
United finished the season 20 points behind champions Chelsea and were out of the running for the title by February. They started the season with a short-lived Champions League campaign after falling to Paris Saint-Germain in the qualifying round.
The lack of direction for the women’s team has been a concern for fans and players alike. A source told ESPN that players were hesitant to renew or sign new contracts due to the lack of understanding of where the team is headed.
Ratcliffe was absent for the women’s team’s inaugural trophy lift in the top flight at Wembley in May, instead opting to head to Old Trafford to watch the men’s team take on Arsenal.
Ratcliffe was at both the men’s FA Cup semifinal and final against Manchester City, which they won 2-0. However, Marc Skinner stated that the team had felt the full support of Ratcliffe and Ineos.
“A proud and historic moment for the team that is testament to their grit, determination and team spirit,” Ratcliffe said in a post that was shared by Ineos on X. “A wonderful achievement. Many congratulations.”
England goalkeeper Mary Earps, one of United’s most high-profile players, is out of contract in a matter of days. The direction of the club is something that could be obstructing her decision.
“The honest reality is that conversations are still ongoing,” Earps told Sky Sports News last month. “I’ve been clear I don’t want to make an emotional decision. I’ve asked the club for some confirmation on what they’re trying to achieve and when I have those answers I’ll be able to make a decision. It’s up to the club.”
United also risk bidding farewell to numerous players. Sources told ESPN that captain Katie Zelem’s future is undecided, and she, along with Earps, are considering moves away from the club.
Meanwhile, Lucía García and Irene Guerrero are both heavily linked with moves to Mexico. Nikita Parris turned down a move to NWSL side North Carolina Courage ahead of the FA Cup final but is still expected to depart the club in this window.
[ad_2]
