Last season, Manchester United surpassed expectations by reaching the final of the FA Cup and finishing second in the league. As a result of their outstanding performances, they qualified for the Champions League for the first time in their history. United recognized the challenges ahead following the departures of Alessia Russo and Ona Batlle, who both left the team on free transfers. As a result of this and the team's significant performances last season, the club chose to heavily back the manager in the summer transfer window, leading to the addition of seven first team players to the squad.

Among these signings, United made a notable signing as they paid 300,000 Euros for the signature of Brazilian forward Geyse from Barcelona. The club also set a new record for the highest transfer fee ever paid for a goalkeeper in women’s football, signing Phallon Tullis-Joyce from OL Reign for nearly $160,000. Additionally, Manchester United bolstered their defense with the signing of Gabby George from Everton, a deal reported to be £150,000 (her release clause).

However, this season has seen United significantly fall short of expectations under Skinner, resulting in the team not only dropping out of the league's top three but also being eliminated from the Champions League and the Conti Cup.

Amidst the storm, somehow United find themselves in the semi final of the FA Cup, where they face Chelsea, the team that bested them in last season's final.

United have never won a game against Chelsea in any competitions since being reformed in 2018. This upcoming semi-final presents an opportunity for redemption against Chelsea; a chance to overturn years of defeats in this fixture. It also offers a chance to avenge the heartbreak of last season’s final loss.

For Skinner, it could be a defining moment to potentially conclude his tenure as United's manager by guiding the team to Wembley in a tough season.

United possess the necessary reinforcements to beat Chelsea in this semi-final. However, after erratic performances throughout this season, they face a challenge that could be considered even more daunting than the odds Leicester City overcame during their remarkable Premier League victory in the 2015/16 season.