Skinner (Man Utd) criticizes live WSL interviews after defeat to Man City

Marc Skinner calls for improvements in WSL broadcasting after Manchester United defeat

Manchester United manager Marc Skinner has expressed his desire for the Women’s Super League (WSL) broadcast process to be improved after a live interview was canceled just as his team conceded the first goal in a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City. The City dominated the first half at the Etihad Stadium, scoring three goals to secure the victory and stay at the top of the table. Currently, they are four points ahead of Chelsea, who will face Liverpool on Sunday. Skinner was preparing for a live interview, a new initiative introduced by the league and broadcasters this season that has already generated mixed reactions among the coaches, when United conceded a goal by Rebecca Knaak.

“There was a moment when I had the headphones on and we weren’t using them. I was listening to the commentary and the goal went in and I couldn’t do anything,” he said, expressing his frustration.

Marc Skinner

“We have to refine the processes, the times. I was doing a live interview and in the end I didn’t have to do it because I had it on for a minute and I was listening to Browny [Rachel Brown-Finnis] comment on the corner and the goal and I thought I couldn’t communicate with my team.”

Although Skinner supports the idea of bringing fans closer to the action, he didn’t like that the current system interrupted his ability to manage during the match.

“They are going to analyze the strategy behind it and how it works best, which I understand, appreciate, and accept. But it simply didn’t work. I want to involve the fans as much as possible, but we have to realistically analyze how it works,” he added.

Marc Skinner

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Arsenal coach Renee Slegers and London City Lionesses boss Jocelyn Precheur shared similar sentiments at the start of the season when asked to do an interview during the opening match. According to the league, coaches only have to do one live interview during the season. The defeat marks United’s second consecutive in the WSL after last week’s surprising 1-0 loss to Aston Villa. Even though City is seven points ahead at the top, Skinner said he still believes his team can close the gap.

“We’ll see at the end of the season. I still think they can be caught,” he said.

Marc Skinner

“I don’t see anything exceptional about them. They are very good on the front lines and can punish anyone, but I think they can be caught. I think we have to cut a difference.”