Manchester United’s midfield options have been under constant reshaping since the arrival of Ruben Amorim, with younger talent stepping up and experienced names being moved on.
Five Manchester United players have submitted transfer requests, signalling the beginning of Ruben Amorim’s squad rebuild.
The Women’s Super League continues to gain momentum, with clubs actively securing their key players ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
United’s former stars are now playing pivotal roles at rival clubs, a growing trend that speaks to both the league’s competitiveness and United’s own evolving strategy.
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The Red Devils have made several signings and re-signings in their women’s setup, while also seeing familiar faces commit to fresh journeys elsewhere.
As the WSL transfer window heats up, Aston Villa have made a major retention move that links directly to United’s recent past.
Lucy Staniforth, who left Manchester United in January 2023, has signed a contract extension with Aston Villa Women that keeps her at the club until June 2026, with an option to extend for a further year, as Villa announced on the clubs official website.
The 32-year-old midfielder was initially set to become a free agent this summer but chose to commit her future to Natalia Arroyo’s side after becoming a crucial figure in their midfield setup.
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Since joining Villa, Lucy Staniforth has made 46 appearances in all competitions and played a key role in helping the club secure its highest-ever finish in the Barclays Women’s Super League.
She was also instrumental in Aston Villa reaching the semi-finals of both the FA Cup and Continental Cup, offering a blend of composure, passing range, and leadership from midfield.
Her performances have earned widespread praise, and her ability to dictate tempo in high-pressure matches has not gone unnoticed.
Staniforth, who also has international experience with England, brings stability and seniority to a relatively youthful Villa squad aiming to break into the WSL’s top four.
Although her time at United was limited by competition for places, her resurgence at Villa has highlighted the quality United once had in their ranks.
With Manchester United looking to add steel and experience to their current women’s midfield, Staniforth’s career revival might serve as a reminder of what was let go too soon.
Her extension signals Villa’s ambition, and perhaps underlines just how competitive the fight for WSL dominance has become.
