Manchester United manager Marc Skinner has left the club by mutual consent just a month before the start of the new Women's Super League season.
The 43-year-old departs after five years in charge, during which he guided United to their first major trophy by winning the Women's FA Cup in 2024. He also led the club to the Women's Champions League group stage for the first time and oversaw three domestic cup final appearances.
Skinner's exit comes ahead of United's WSL opener away to London City Lionesses on 4 September.
His departure follows a quiet summer in the transfer market, with Skinner having previously voiced concerns over the club's level of investment in the first-team squad.
United have instead adopted a long-term recruitment strategy focused on signing younger players as part of a sustainable development model.
The club has also strengthened its youth pathway, with BBC Sport reporting in July that the girls' academy will train at Carrington, United's main training complex, from this season.
However, many supporters have expressed frustration at the club's lack of transfer activity, particularly as rivals Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea have all strengthened their squads. Newly promoted London City Lionesses have also made headlines by signing two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, while Tottenham recruited Lyon defender Alice Sombath.
It is understood Skinner and the club held discussions during the summer before agreeing to part ways.
Manchester United are already well advanced in their search for a successor, with background checks on potential candidates completed. A proven track record of developing young players is understood to be one of the key criteria in the club's search for a new head coach.
