The story of Manchester United Women so far

“The players are excited, the women’s game is excited. We've gone young, we've gone entertaining. It’s a massive journey to go on, but I’m really excited about the squad and the future of this team,” says former England and Team GB captain Stoney. “For me it’s an opportunity to form something, to create something, to mould a team your own way, to get the players in, coach them, work with them and create something.”

Starting from scratch, Stoney and her team handpicked the 21-strong squad with three main considerations in mind: character, talent and winning behaviours. An excellent mix of experience, youth and returning stars, there are some fascinating stories behind the squad’s journey to signing for United’s first professional women’s team.

England Under-17 international defender Lucy Roberts follows in the footsteps of her great great grandfather in representing the club; Charlie Roberts was the first-ever captain to lead Manchester United out at Old Trafford.

One of seven players returning to the club, Katie Zelem - an exciting technical midfielder - joined United aged eight. She re-signs as a 22-year-old having won Serie A with Juventus last season and back-to-back FAWSL titles with Liverpool in 2013 and 2014.

“Now I’m back, it feels amazing,” beams Zelem. “Juventus was an incredible club and an incredible experience all-round. Going there made me a better player and a better person. Stepping away from the Champions League was difficult but I wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t feel it was right. I feel I can really develop my game under Casey and Willie.”

Eight players made the switch from local rivals Liverpool, including established England players Siobhan Chamberlain and Alex Greenwood. The 2015 FIFA World Cup bronze medallists add significant domestic and international experience to a young squad eager to hit the ground running.

Chamberlain endured an eventful debut in a pre-season friendly against her former side; the 34-year-old suffered a suspected serious neck injury that forced the abandonment of the game. Fortunately, investigations confirmed no serious injury and the former Chelsea and Bristol Academy goalkeeper is back in training.

Greenwood, United’s captain, cannot wait to get started, though there’s a fierce determination behind the excitement. “To lead Manchester United into what could be greatness is an honour,” says the England left-back. “There are many goals but, for the team, ultimately, it’s to get to WSL1. First and foremost, that is the goal and we’ll take it from there. The girls are buzzing. It’s such a fantastic thing to be a part of. We’re creating history.”

United are joined in the Women’s Championship by Aston Villa, Charlton Athletic, Crystal Palace, Durham, Leicester City, Lewes, London Bees, Millwall, Sheffield United and Tottenham Hotspur. The Reds start their league campaign on Sunday 9 September away against Villa.

The majority of the team’s home fixtures will be played at Leigh Sports Village, the first against Sheffield United on Thursday 20 September (7pm kick off). With a capacity of 12,000, it is one of the largest capacity stadiums in the Women’s League. If you can’t get yourself to the ground for the Reds' fixtures, selected games will be broadcast live on MUTV and there will be regular updates on ManUtd.com and the club’s social media channels.

“My ultimate aim is to grow this team so that every little girl growing up dreams when she’s older she wants to play for Man United, because they’re the most successful team in women’s football,” states Stoney. The journey to the top starts here.

Season Tickets are on sale now priced at £39 for Adults, £20 for Under 16s/65+. This price includes home cup games (except for semi-finals / finals if applicable). This price includes home cup games (except for semi-finals / finals if applicable).