Eva Olid has described being appointed as Manchester United Women head coach as a dream come true, after signing a two-year contract until 2028 with the option of a further year.
Replacing Marc Skinner
The Spanish coach will replace Marc Skinner, whose surprise departure was announced on Monday morning. Olid had been out of work since guiding Hearts to their first Scottish Women's Premier League title last season and leaving the Edinburgh club by mutual agreement, after a five-year spell during which she oversaw a remarkable period of progress.
Youth development focus
The 40-year-old's arrival comes as United are understood to be prioritising developing their own young, homegrown players rather than spending large transfer fees. In a statement the club said: "Olid's appointment marks the start of an exciting new era for Manchester United Women as the club embarks on a clear vision for long-term, sustainable growth and success."
"Important foundations have already been put in place to further support the development of homegrown talent and young players, as well as senior internationals, and establish a clear football identity. Significant investment has been made into the academy infrastructure and facilities, underlining the ambition to build the leading youth development system in the country."
Olid's reaction
Olid told the club's website: "The opportunity to become head coach of Manchester United Women is a dream come true. The club has outstanding infrastructure and everything we need to achieve our ambitions. We have an excellent training facility, an academy that is already producing players capable of performing in a competitive first team, and an exceptional group of support staff.
"There is already so much talent within our squad and I am excited to work with the players to support them to fulfil their immense potential. I am joining Manchester United at a really exciting time. There is a clear alignment in our shared vision for long-term success. I cannot wait to begin preparing a team that will make our incredible supporters proud."
United's season
United finished fourth in the Women's Super League last season and reached the quarter-finals of the Women's Champions League, as well as the League Cup final.
Director's praise
Matt Johnson, United's director of women's football, said: "Eva is an outstanding coach with an incredible determination to succeed. Her remarkable achievements at Heart of Midlothian showcased her ability to maximise the potential of individual players, whilst also implementing an exciting style of football.
"Eva is the perfect coach to lead us into an exciting new era. She shares our commitment to developing exciting homegrown and young players, a tradition deeply embedded in our club's history and culture, as well as improving established senior internationals, both of which form an integral part of our vision for long-term, sustainable success."
