Man Utd strengthen midfield with arrival of Canada international

Manchester United are looking to take their midfield to the next level with the unveiling of Canada international Simi Awujo. 

The 20-year-old will remain at the Red Devils until the end of the 2026/27 season. She joins from the United States collegiate system, where she represented the University of Southern California’s USC Trojans.

Awujo made her senior international debut for Canada at 18 years old and has made 19 appearances for her country to date, reaching the quarter-finals of this summer’s Paris 2024 Olympics.

"To say that I’m a professional footballer for Manchester United is insane," Awujo said. "I'm so excited for the season ahead, what the future holds here and just to be a Red Devil. I cannot wait to play in front of the great Manchester United fans."

Awujo is one of four new signings for United this summer, as the club aims to strengthen their squad to be in with a fighting chance of improving upon a disappointing 2023/24 fifth spot finish, despite winning the FA Cup. 

They’ve already announced the arrival of Dominique Janssen, Anna Sandberg and Elisabeth Terland, as well as the return of Grace Clinton, who was on a season-long loan at Tottenham Hotspur. 

Head coach Mark Skinner, who’s undoubtedly under pressure, has expressed his excitement at the addition of Awujo to United. 

"Simi is an exciting young talent who we are delighted has chosen to continue her football journey with us here," he said. "Our wonderful fans can expect a midfielder with international pedigree, who will only develop further in our competitive English game."

The intention from United to prioritise new additions will no doubt relieve fans, who've had to witness a mass exodus of instrumental players this summer, including goalkeeper Mary Earps, captain Katie Zelem, Lucia Garcia and Irene Guerrero.

The club have also experienced a lot of scrutiny, in recent months following controversial comments from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe over his unequal treatment of the women’s team compared to the men’s. However, it doesn’t seem to have eradicated interest from players wanting to sign for United, much to the surprise of many.

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