Marc Skinner accepts accountability for Manchester United's disappointing season despite a 1-1 draw with Brighton in 2026.
A stoppage-time strike from Lea Schuller rescued Manchester United from defeat against Brighton at Leigh Sports Village, salvaging a 1-1 draw. The result extended United's winless streak to nine games, dating back to their Champions League play-off victory over Atletico Madrid in February. They have managed just six points from their last five Women's Super League fixtures and currently sit fourth in the table, trailing third-placed Arsenal by a single point. Arsenal need only three points from their final four matches to secure a European return, with United concluding their league campaign at Chelsea on May 16.
Manchester United's disappointing campaign included defeats in the League Cup final and the FA Cup, along with a Champions League quarter-final loss to Bayern Munich. A season filled with early promise has now faded, leaving the club in a precarious position. The 1-1 draw with Brighton, secured by an injury-time equalizer, did little to ease concerns about the team's form. Skinner acknowledged the fans' frustration, noting the audible boos heard at the end of each half.
Marc Skinner emphasized his responsibility as the club's manager, stating that he is the figure accountable for the results. He acknowledged hearing the fans' discontent and accepted their right to voice opinions while emphasizing his own deep disappointment. "I hear it, I feel it. I'm at the head of the football club. I'm accountable, right? I'm there for people to give their opinion. I work tirelessly hard to push this football club. Everyone's entitled to their opinion. I will never deny that but there's no-one more disappointed than me today for not taking three points."
Ahead of the Brighton match, Skinner reiterated his expectation to remain in charge for the upcoming season. His contract extends for one more year, though a portion of supporters believes a managerial change is necessary. Despite the criticism, Skinner has received sympathy for operating with significantly less funding compared to the three teams currently above United. However, the challenge extends beyond just the top teams, as mid-table rivals also pose threats to their position.
Skinner pointed out the growing investments around Manchester United, stressing the need to focus not only on teams above but also those below in the standings. He recognized the progress made by the squad while acknowledging the need for reflection. "We see the investment around us, we see the strategy around us. No longer can we just look at them teams above us, we have to be able to be aware of those teams below. I know everybody wants to jump on the negative but there's also amazing growth from this team too. We have to do some reflection, of course we do." The manager stressed the importance of evaluating resources and strategic direction over the summer to maintain their position in the chasing pack and prevent lower-ranked teams from overtaking them.
Skinner highlighted increased spending by rival teams, including London City Lionesses, who are strengthening their squad. Brighton, who have reached the FA Cup semi-finals and defeated both Arsenal and Manchester City recently, have also announced ambitious plans for a new 10,000-capacity stadium for their women's team. "The reality is we have to assess over the summer where the resource goes and which direction we push that in, to make sure we stay in that chasing pack and obviously make sure the teams behind us can't catch us."