Ella Toone embraces new WSL era as United turn a page

Under the floodlights of Old Trafford, Ella Toone laces her boots, feeling the roar of a crowd that once seemed distant. The 26‑year‑old midfielder, a founding figure of Manchester United’s women’s side, looks ahead to a fresh chapter in the Women’s Super League, confident she still has much to give.

Toone has been at the heart of United’s women’s team since its inception in 2018, accumulating a wealth of experience and becoming one of the club’s most recognizable faces. She stresses that her ambition remains undiminished, insisting she can still add value on and off the pitch.

New management under Eva Olid

Marc Skinner’s five‑year spell in charge concluded this summer, paving the way for former Hearts boss Eva Olid to take the helm. Olid arrives for her first Women’s Super League role, tasked with steering United through a period of transition. The appointment marks a clear shift in direction as the club seeks to rebuild under fresh leadership.

Squad turnover and leadership

Significant change has swept through the squad, with Leah Galton, Hannah Blundell, Millie Turner, Lisa Naalsund, Melvine Malard and Gabby George all departing. In the wake of those exits, Toone has emerged as a senior figure, embracing a leadership role she says she enjoys. “I’m 26 and for some reason I’m now in the old category at this club,” Toone said, adding that she takes pride in the many games she has played for Manchester United.

Growing competition in the WSL

The Women’s Super League has expanded to 14 teams and continues to attract global stars, exemplified by former Barcelona star Alexia Putellas joining London City Lionesses this summer. Toone believes the heightened competition makes the league one of the best in the world, noting that “no game is an easy game in this league, every game is really tough.”

That investment across the WSL provides an interesting backdrop to United’s own summer, which has been dominated by departures that raise questions about the club’s ability to keep pace with rivals such as Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal.

Toone’s personal drive remains evident. “I have that motivation to get up and give 100% every day,” she explained, adding that she feels she still has a “really high ceiling” and a long way to go.

Playing at Old Trafford is a highlight for the lifelong United fan. “It means everything to play at Old Trafford,” she said, while also acknowledging Leigh Sports Village as the team’s long‑standing home.

As the WSL continues to grow, Toone’s blend of experience and ambition positions her as a key figure in United’s quest to remain competitive and to inspire the next generation of women’s footballers.