Skinner: Tounkara educated us about Ramadan
Marc Skinner has thanked Aissatou Tounkara for sharing her experience of fasting during Ramadan with the rest of the United Women squad.
As a devout Muslim, the first to play for our women's side, Tounkara was fasting for Ramadan from 22 March until 20 April.
The France international also continued her training during this time, and was supported during the process by the club.
Nutritionist Aimee O'Keefe also joined Aissatou during this time, experiencing the realities of fasting and maintaining elite performance simultaneously.
Yes, I had an incredible support during this month of Ramadan. Many thanks to the best nutritionist @Aimeeellen1 for helping me to feel good every day. 👏🏾 https://t.co/X78IzJUKPi
— Aïssatou Tounkara (@Aissatou75) April 22, 2023
In his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Skinner was asked about this topic, and thanked Aissatou for helping to educate both himself and his squad.
"This should become a normality in the game," he said. "It should be inclusive of everyone.
"I'm so pleased that Aimee went through it. Credit to everyone who fasts in that way, it's an unbelievably challenging time and it shows the strength of faith that you need so, for us, I think a thank you for giving us the experience - and Aissa for giving us the experience to do that.
"I think there has been a lot of growth in that and I have seen the connected nature of the team to come around and support Aissa in it. And then her educating and helping educate us.
"Thank you to everybody that's been involved. Aimee has shown that but, actually, I've learned a lot from it and I massively adapt my practices going forward to be super inclusive going forwards."
Throwback to this wholesome chat about Ramadan ❤️
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) April 21, 2023
Eid Mubarak to those celebrating today 🌙#MUWomen pic.twitter.com/P8XCPGXGyn