Manchester United Women’s captain Katie Zelem epitomises the attitude the team must take into next season.
United lost 4-2 in their final league game against Chelsea, despite leading 2-1 at half-time. However, Zelem recognised the significance of United going into the second half with a fighting chance against the eventual WSL champions.
“Going in 2-1 at half time, I think we couldn’t have asked for any more,” said the Manchester-born midfielder after the game. “I think you could see in glimpses of that performance that we are a team to be reckoned with. There are lots of positives to build on for next year.”
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It has not been a straightforward campaign for United. There has been upheaval at the club since last summer, with the loss of manager Casey Stoney and several new signings.
With a 6-1 home defeat to Chelsea in September followed by just one league win across October and November, Marc Skinner’s reign looked to be in serious difficulties. However, they have finished the season strongly, retaining their fourth placed finish from the last campaign.
Zelem has played a pivotal part in this revival, with four goals and three assists in the WSL since December. She has both the passion of a local fan and the experience of the big stage, having competed in the Women’s Champions League with Juventus.
However, she also has the patience required, recognising that United will need some time to be at the level of their rivals. As she explained: “It took the likes of Chelsea, Man City and Arsenal years to get into these positions and be competing for the Champions League.”
Furthermore, this approach is shared with Skinner.
“Everybody in life now wants a fast food fix,” he said after that defeat to Chelsea. “If a loss doesn’t burn and you don’t learn from it, you can’t really sustain that for a long time.”
Both have also reiterated their determination to not rest until silverware is achieved. Zelem has stated that the team “want to be lifting trophies.” Skinner has vowed not to rest until United are “champions of something.” That mix of resolve and perseverance will go some way to taking this United team to the top.
Zelem and Skinner will be well aware that this club was only formed three years ago and has been playing catch up with more experienced teams since. Their calm leadership will be crucial if United are to compete regularly with Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal.
The feeling around the club generally is one of optimism. The 3-1 win against Everton in March at Old Trafford, for instance, will long be remembered. A United Women record attendance of 20,241 witnessed spirited comeback, in which Zelem’s penalty gave United the lead.
Step by step, United are getting closer to the top of the WSL. If they are to overhaul the big three, the club will owe a great gratitude to its captain.
