Kathryn Batte

Lauren James discusses her reserved personality, dislike of attention and social media, and the racism she has faced during her football career. The Chelsea and England forward explains how improved fitness management, rest and professional habits helped her overcome recurring injuries and regain form. She reflects on Chelsea’s third-place Women’s Super League finish, the club’s substantial squad changes under Sonia Bompastor, and the importance of helping new signings settle in. James says she avoids setting personal targets because pressure can inhibit her performance, but believes the best of her career is still to come.

Marc Skinner left Manchester United by mutual consent after becoming increasingly frustrated with the club’s limited investment and restrictive financial model for its women’s team. Although he won the 2024 FA Cup and guided United to their highest WSL finish and first Champions League quarter-final, he faced criticism over tactics, recruitment and poor relations with supporters. The article argues that Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s focus on the men’s team has reinforced the perception that United’s women’s side is a low priority. Skinner’s successor is expected to inherit the same constraints, with the club favouring a youth-led strategy and unlikely to reinvest significantly in the squad.