Manchester United's new head coach, Eva Olid, faces intense pressure at the start of her tenure after a poor Women's Super League opener, with critics pointing to a delayed managerial appointment and late transfer dealings as key factors undermining the team's preparation. Olid had only three weeks to instil her tactical approach before the season began, hampered further by new signings arriving as late as 28 August and 2 September, leaving United playing catch-up against rivals who completed their transfer business earlier and enjoyed a fuller pre-season.

The club has been criticised for insufficient investment in the women's team, with minority owner Jim Ratcliffe's dismissive remarks cited as evidence of a lack of commitment, even as United pursue a "sustainable" recruitment model focused on younger players. Olid, who previously led Hearts to professionalism and a Scottish title before leaving over similar investment concerns, has been promised reinforcements in the January window, but must first navigate 12 WSL fixtures plus cup games — starting with Chelsea at home on Sunday and Arsenal away the following week — after a squad overhaul saw seven departures offset by only four new arrivals.