Manchester United Women have completed the signing of Aoife Mannion.
The former Manchester City Women defender has signed a two-year contract with the Red Devils.
Manchester United Women Sign Aoife Mannion
Bolstering the backline 👊❌#MUWomen @AoifeMannion_
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) July 26, 2021
Recruitment Drive Well Under Way With Aoife Mannion Addition
Having now lost seven players this summer, Manchester United Women have been faced with the task of replacing them and strengthening the squad at the same time.
They have now named four signings in the last six days as business starts to pick up ahead of the new season, in which they will begin their campaign hosting Reading Women.
Marc Skinner is also in line to be named as the club’s new manager after stepping down as head coach of Orlando Pride.
Mannion Provides More Champions League Experience for United
Mannion brings Champions League experience to the Red Devils from her time with both Birmingham City Women and Manchester City. This, along with the experience of their other signings, can only prove advantageous to United – who look to qualify for the competition for the first time since their formation in 2018 this coming season.
The 25-year-old defender started her senior career with Birmingham City in 2013, spending six years with the Blues before a move to Manchester City in 2019. Two years later, she’s opted to join the Red side of Manchester.
She has featured at England U15, U17, U19, U20 and U23 levels.
Mannion has been named in the FA Women’s Super League Team of the Year twice – in 2017/18 and 2018/19.
Mannion Delighted to Be Joining Manchester United
Upon joining the club, Mannion told ManUtd.com: “I’m delighted to be joining Manchester United. It’s a new chapter for me in my career and I’m just looking forward to working as hard as I can for this club.
“European football is obviously a big ambition here and would be the next step for the club, so to break into the Champions League with this team would be amazing.
“I’ve also heard lots about the fans,” she added. “And how passionate they are, and I can’t wait to hear them all in the stadium next season.”
Manchester United football director John Murtough added to the club website: “Aoife is a high-quality and versatile defender who will give us some great options in our back line as we continue to strengthen the squad this summer.
“She brings key Champions League experience to this group, having been involved in the competition with both Birmingham and Manchester City over the years.
“Aoife is also a great character to add to this group of players and we know she can have a real impact here. We’re looking forward to her getting started with the team.”
Abbie McManus Exit Confirmed
Earlier today, it was confirmed that Abbie McManus would become the seventh player to exit the club this summer.
She, like Mannion, joined United from rivals City. Though, struggled to become a key member of the squad, subsequently joining Tottenham Hotspur Women on loan. Her contract has now expired and she is reportedly headed for Leicester City Women, according to BBC Sport’s Emma Sanders.
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