New Manchester United head coach Eva Olid has called on her squad to play courageously and adopt an attack-focused approach this season.
The Spanish coach will oversee her first Women’s Super League match on Friday, when United visit London City Lionesses in the opening fixture of the season (19:00 BST).
Olid joined the club from Hearts and succeeded Marc Skinner, who left his position during the summer.
The managerial transition, combined with fewer transfer moves than many fans expected, has raised questions about whether United can compete for a place in the top three this season.
Addressing those doubts, Olid said: “It is understandable for some people to be uncertain, although I have also received a great deal of support.
“Those who watched my work at Hearts over the past few years know that I managed to achieve something many considered impossible, so I am confident about what we can accomplish here.
“Progress will not happen within a few weeks, but with enough time, I believe remarkable things can be achieved.”
Olid has delivered a direct message to her squad and hopes the players can produce a strong performance on Friday despite a disappointing pre-season.
“I want us to play attacking football. My tactical plans are built around finding ways to trouble our opponents because every team has vulnerabilities that can be targeted,” Olid explained.
“This will be the team’s first league fixture, and I want the performance to reflect my vision as closely as possible. Our playing approach will differ from last season.
“Naturally, changing the team’s approach is challenging. For this opening match, I temporarily set aside some tactical principles that would require more time to implement so that we are ready to compete.
“The club wants the team to deliver entertaining football and perform without fear. Although that approach involves certain risks, I have the club’s backing. They appointed me because this is the style they want.”
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