Zhipan Sport

Olid Promises 'Brave' Man Utd with New-Look Style

Sep 3, 05:00 PM

New Manchester United women's manager Eva Olid has urged her players to be 'brave' and have an 'attacking mindset' this season.

New Manchester United women's manager Eva Olid has delivered a clear message to her players ahead of her first match in charge: be 'brave' and adopt an 'attacking mindset' this season. The Spanish coach, who replaced the departed Marc Skinner, is working to instill a new tactical philosophy and team spirit. Olid, who previously served as an assistant coach at Barcelona and with the Spanish women's national team, brings a wealth of experience from the highest levels of the game. She emphasized that United need to shed the conservative approach of last season and instead adopt a more aggressive, possession-based style. 'We want to control the game, not react to it,' she said in her pre-match press conference. During pre-season preparations, Olid has focused on high pressing and quick transitions. She demands that the defensive line push up boldly, midfielders make intelligent runs, and forwards constantly challenge the opposition's backline. This style echoes the 'attacking football' philosophy of legendary United men's manager Sir Alex Ferguson, and it has already generated excitement among fans. However, change will not happen overnight. United finished fifth in the Women's Super League last season, a staggering 15 points behind champions Chelsea. The team repeatedly exposed defensive frailties in key matches and lacked efficiency in attack. Olid acknowledged that rebuilding takes time, but she is confident the players can adapt to the new system. 'I see the hunger and potential in the players,' Olid said. 'They are willing to learn and fight for each other. We are building a culture of trust where everyone can express themselves freely on the pitch.' She specifically highlighted young talents like Ella Toone and Grace Clinton as key executors of the new tactics. United's season opener will be against newly promoted Bristol City, and Olid is expected to field a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing wide play and midfield control. She stated that the team's goal is not just to win, but to deliver a convincing performance. Meanwhile, United have been active in the transfer market, bringing in Spanish defender Maria Leon and French midfielder Sandie Toletti to bolster squad depth. Olid expressed satisfaction with the signings and stressed that the newcomers will quickly integrate into the team's system. As the new season approaches, United women's supporters are full of anticipation for what lies ahead. Olid's 'brave' declaration is not only a demand on her players but also a promise to the fans. Whether she can lead United back into title contention will be one of the major storylines of the WSL season.