World Cup 2026

Explained: Why Ella Toone & Jess Park Were Benched For Man Utd’s Champions League Defeat To Lyon

Manchester United manager Marc Skinner has addressed the controversial decision to bench Lionesses stars Ella Toone and Jess Park during Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Lyon. Despite the Red Devils already securing a play-off spot, Skinner’s team selection sparked questions ahead of a 3-0 defeat to the eight-time European winners.

Park, Toone & Skinner’s Bold Team Selection

It wasn’t only Toone, leading the Women’s Super League in assists, and Park, in top form, who were benched. Skinner also left out key players like Dominique Janssen and Julia Zigiotti Olme, both of whom had performed strongly this season.

The gamble didn’t pay off, with United struggling in the first half until all three substitutes entered the game at halftime. Even then, the Red Devils couldn’t overturn the deficit, succumbing to a 3-0 loss.

Skinner Explains The Thinking

“You can lose a game against Lyon on set pieces, on physicality, so we had to have balance,” Skinner said. “We needed to match them physically from the first half, and then adapt and change in the second half. I felt that first half, we were matching them physically, especially from set pieces, but we probably didn’t get enough pressure, so I adapted at halftime to get more ball possession.”

When asked about the reaction of Toone, Park, and Zigiotti to being left out, Skinner added:

“When they had the reasons and rationale explained, they understood. They don’t want to not play but I always explain the reasons. I don’t leave any players blind to what the decisions are. That’s my job, to make tough decisions.”

Lyon’s Perspective

Lyon head coach Jonatan Giraldez acknowledged their squad’s blend of physical, technical, and tactical talent, saying:

“I don’t think that only the physicality has been key. I think as a team, we have done a very good job today.”

Preparing For A Busy January

Skinner also highlighted the need to manage squad rotation. United face four games in just ten days, meaning some players needed rest. He emphasized the need for additional reinforcements in January, explaining that the squad isn’t lacking quality, but depth is required to compete effectively across multiple competitions.

“It’s nothing to do with the quality in my squad right now. It needs support and numbers of quality,” Skinner said. “I don’t want to diminish anything from my squad. I love [the players] and what they do. It’s about trying to grow the team.”