Man Utd: Women’s team ‘a top priority’ for the club

Matt Johnson, Manchester United’s interim head of women’s football, says the club wants to continue “competing in Europe and winning more trophies” in the coming years.

Speaking to BBC Sport at half-time of United’s 1-1 home draw with Arsenal on Sunday, Johnson said: “We want to create a women’s football team that can compete with the best in the country.

“We are starting to see the fruits of our plans in place and we are pleased with the progress. We feel we are moving in the right direction towards our ambition.”

The club faced questions over its handling of the women’s team after moving from their £7 million bespoke training facility to house the men’s first team this summer – a decision later defended by manager Marc Skinner.

However, Johnson says this party will remain a “key priority” going forward.

“The redevelopment of Carrington is a £50 million investment to create a top training ground for men, women and academy teams. The big picture is amazing. In the short term the girls will have everything they need to succeed and thrive .”

Manchester United remain unbeaten after the first five games of the season and are fourth in the table behind Manchester City, Brighton and Chelsea.

While the squad has shown promise so far, Johnson says there is still more to come from the club, both on and off the pitch.

“In terms of our progress, we are not far off. We are currently in the top three and our team is playing very well. There is a lot of work to do on and off the pitch, but we are heading in the right direction.” direction.”