Prepare for Tension at Old Trafford! - Mary Earps braces for potentially hostile reception as she returns to face Manchester United with PSG after leaving the Red Devils for free in 2024.
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12 Nov 2025 04:36+05:30
Mary Earps is gearing up for a potentially chilly welcome when she steps back onto Old Trafford this week for the Women's Champions League clash, facing her former club, Manchester United. After choosing not to renew her contract with the Red Devils in 2024 and departing on a free transfer, Earps now represents Paris Saint-Germain. Her upcoming visit comes shortly after the stir caused by revelations in her autobiography, adding another layer of intrigue to the encounter.
Earps anticipates boos at Old Trafford
When Earps departed United at the end of her contract, she left behind a historic FA Cup victory, but also the club’s worst season in the Women's Super League to date. She explained that the transitional period the club was entering didn't align with her personal career goals. While Arsenal reportedly showed interest at one point, Earps ultimately decided on PSG. With both Manchester United and PSG securing spots in the Champions League group stage this season, Earps told BBC Sport that facing her former team felt almost "written in the stars."
She added: "From the moment United qualified, I had a feeling this would happen. Maybe I even manifested it, who knows? Returning to Old Trafford, a place full of unforgettable memories, is something I genuinely look forward to."
Earps is no stranger to the possibility of a frosty reception. She witnessed firsthand the hostile reaction that Alessia Russo received when she left United for Arsenal on a free transfer in 2023, facing jeers at Leigh Sports Village in her first game against her old club. Earps openly acknowledges that she might encounter similar reactions, saying, "I’m probably expecting a little booing. I hope it's just a little, but it could be more. Some fans have supported me since I joined PSG, but Manchester United will always come first for them. I completely understand that."
Factors that could soften the crowd's reaction
However, there are reasons to believe the reception may not be overwhelmingly negative. The match is set to take place at Old Trafford, a much larger venue compared to the intimate Leigh Sports Village (recently renamed the Progress With Unity Stadium), where every voice carries and hostility can feel amplified. The bigger stadium and the high-profile occasion could attract more casual fans, who are typically less vocal.
Additionally, Earps’ comments about Hannah Hampton in her book have stirred debate, mainly among Chelsea supporters, rather than Manchester United fans. Unlike Russo, who moved to a direct rival, Earps’ choice of PSG over another WSL club might lessen any resentment. Furthermore, United had prepared for a post-Earps era by signing Phallon Tullis-Joyce a year prior, who has since excelled as the first-choice goalkeeper and earned a nomination for the 2025 Best FIFA Women's Goalkeeper award. This contrasts with Russo’s departure, which left a more immediate gap in the team’s attacking lineup.
Marc Skinner: Earps remains 'welcome'
Manchester United manager Marc Skinner, who briefly worked with Earps at Leicester City during her teenage years, affirmed on Tuesday that he will speak positively about her. "Mary and I have always had a good relationship," he said. "I haven’t read the book in full, just snippets, but I respect that she’s sharing her truth. From our perspective, we’ll welcome her as an opponent while also acknowledging all she achieved at United. I know Mary is a good person, and I’m looking forward to testing her and her team this Wednesday night."
What’s next for Earps?
Manchester United aim to extend their perfect start in the Champions League with three wins from three, having defeated Valerenga and Atletico Madrid. Meanwhile, PSG are still searching for their first point after losses to Wolfsburg and Real Madrid. The stage is set for a thrilling contest under the lights at Old Trafford, where both teams have everything to play for.
Question for fans: Could Earps’ move to PSG be justified, or do you think loyalty to United should have come first? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark strong opinions!
