Manchester United Women Announce Key Squad Number Changes for New Season

Manchester United Women have announced significant squad number changes for four of their players, marking a period of transition and development as the club prepares for the new season. These adjustments reflect individual player journeys and strategic decisions within the team.

Norwegian winger Celin Bizet Donnum will now wear the coveted No. 11 shirt upon her return to the pitch. This number, previously held by Leah Galton for eight years, signifies a prominent role for Bizet Donnum, who previously wore No. 15 for two seasons. Her return follows a period away after giving birth in June, and the new number underscores her re-integration into the squad.

Swedish midfielder Julia Zigiotti, who impressed in her debut season wearing No. 18, will transition to No. 15. This number holds personal significance for Zigiotti, as it is one she has frequently worn while representing her national team.

Defender Jess Simpson sees her progress acknowledged with a change from No. 38 to No. 26. This follows a successful loan spell at SouthamptonTeam·Southampton during the 2025/26 season, where she gained valuable experience and demonstrated her capabilities. Similarly, Emma Watson has moved from No. 34 to No. 21 after returning from a loan period with Mexican club Tigres, a change that highlights her continued development.

Beyond these four, new summer signings have also received their numbers, with Andrea Medina taking No. 6 and Janina LeitzigPlayer·Janina Leitzig assigned No. 25. Additionally, Scarlett Hill and Layla DruryPlayer·Layla Drury, who recently signed their first professional contracts, will wear No. 22 and No. 27 respectively, further solidifying the squad's composition.

These squad number updates come as Manchester United Women look ahead to the new campaign, following a 2025/26 season that saw them finish fourth in the Women's Super League. The team also made a historic run to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Women's Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League, playing matches at Old Trafford against formidable opponents like Paris Saint-GermainTeam·Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern MunichTeam·Bayern Munich. They were also runners-up in the League Cup and reached the Fifth Round of the FA CupCompetition·FA Cup. The club recently saw a change in leadership with Marc Skinner's departure as head coach, indicating a broader period of evolution for the team as they aim to build on past successes.