Maya Le Tissier never imagined she would be captaining Manchester United at just 22 years old. After leading her team to an unbeaten start to the Women’s Super League (WSL) season, the England defender is embracing the significant changes within the squad. With four wins and a draw under her belt, she’s seen the departure of key players like Mary Earps, Nikita Parris, and former captain Katie Zelem, along with six new signings, including Norway’s Celin Bizet from Tottenham.

“It’s a really positive environment,” Le Tissier shared. “The team has a fresh culture, and we’re quite young.”

Reflecting on her unexpected role as captain, she said, “Honestly, I never thought that when I was playing back home, I’d be United captain at 22. It feels surreal. When some players left this summer, I hoped to be a part of the mix, but I didn’t know if [coach Marc Skinner] would trust me with the captaincy. When he did, I was ecstatic.”

Le Tissier attributes her leadership qualities to her life experiences. “I moved away from home when I was 16, and that journey has shaped me into the player and leader I am today. I’m really grateful for my upbringing back in Guernsey. It’s challenging coming from an island, but I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.”

She also took a moment to highlight her United and England teammate Grace Clinton, who has excelled in the midfield since her return from loan at Tottenham, scoring three goals in the first four league matches. “Her loan spells have benefited her enormously,” Le Tissier noted. “She joined United around the same time I did, and we both were maybe not fully ready at that point. But after her time with Bristol City and Spurs, she’s really stepped up. She’s crucial to our team and has come back to United on fire.”

Le Tissier is focused on making her mark on the international stage as well. After being on standby for the World Cup in 2023 and traveling to Australia with the squad only to leave before the tournament began, she described the experience as “bittersweet and really tough” yet invaluable.

Now, Le Tissier finds herself preparing to face Germany in a friendly at Wembley, a rematch of the 2022 European Championship final, which she attended as a fan. She is hopeful for a spot in next summer’s squad for the Euros in Switzerland. “It would mean everything,” she said. “Playing in a major tournament with England is the dream for all of us. I’ve come close but still feel far from it. I know I need to elevate my game, and I’m committed to doing everything I can this season to earn my place. Making that team would be incredibly special.”