Ella Toone has spoken warmly of former Manchester United manager Marc Skinner, saying she will always be grateful for the support he gave her following the death of her father, just days after his departure from the club.
Skinner left United by mutual consent on Monday after five years in the role, a tenure that included guiding the Women's Super League side into the Champions League knockout stages for the first time and delivering the club's first major trophy with victory in the 2024 Women's FA Cup. Despite those achievements, he faced criticism from parts of the fanbase and departs after United finished fourth in the WSL last season, missing out on European qualification.
Toone, speaking at United's pre-season media day on Tuesday, less than 48 hours after news of Skinner's exit broke, reflected on the personal impact he had on her life away from the pitch, particularly after she lost her father in September 2024.
"Me and Marc worked together for five years, and I have grown so much as a player and as a person," Toone said. "I went through the worst thing you could ever imagine, and he was there throughout it all. He was there as a shoulder to cry on, but gave me freedom on the pitch to express myself. I will always be grateful that he was there to see me through that time."
She added that their relationship was built on trust and honesty. "We had honest conversations. He was a good person, and he helped me come back to give everything for the team," she said, praising Skinner's efforts to connect with players beyond football. "For everyone else, he made time to get to know players as people away from the football pitch. I'll be grateful for our time together."
Toone was joined by club captain Maya Le Tissier, who also reflected on Skinner's influence on her career. The pair revealed that Skinner addressed the squad in the dressing room on Monday morning to say his farewells before the announcement was made public.
"There have obviously been a lot of challenges but a lot of nice moments as well," Le Tissier said. "It was sad, but we move on now. He brought me to the club as a kid, and gave me the captaincy - two of the greatest honours of my life. I have a lot to thank him for."
United have indicated a new head coach will be appointed soon, with the 2026-27 WSL season set to begin within a month. Reports suggest the club is prioritising a candidate with experience developing young talent, part of a broader shift toward nurturing academy players. United have spent considerably less on transfers this summer compared to several WSL rivals.
Both Toone and Le Tissier confirmed they have had no involvement in the search for Skinner's successor. "We are not involved at all," Le Tissier said. "We have heard it will be soon, which will be beneficial for us - we have our first pre-season game soon."
Toone added that the squad remains adaptable regardless of who takes charge. "We have both played under so many different managers with different philosophies, we know we will give 100% and buy into what they want. The club's ambition is to bring through the youth but also look after the older ones in the group. I can't believe that's us - I'm 26, I'm not that old, but we are leaders so must step up. Whoever comes in it will be exciting and a different journey."
The managerial change comes during a turbulent period for United, who have seen five first-team players depart this summer, including striker Melvine Malard's move to Chelsea, with defender Gabby George also expected to join Brighton. Questions have also emerged around investment in the women's team, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe facing criticism for his perceived lack of engagement, having not attended either of the club's Women's FA Cup final appearances at Wembley.
Despite the uncertainty, both players urged supporters to stand by the team. "I have been here from the start, and there has always been that family feeling around the team," Toone said. "We sit together in tough moments - there have been a few over the years. It might be difficult right now, but as soon as that new manager comes in we can knuckle down."
Le Tissier echoed the sentiment, calling for continued backing from fans. "Support the team no matter what - if you are proper fans you will be with us all the way. We give everything, and so did Marc."
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.