Eva Olid has barely had a moment to breathe since arriving at Manchester United Women two months ago — but the international break is about to change that. The Spanish head coach says she is actively asking people for tips as she prepares to explore Manchester for the very first time.

"I didn't stop from when I arrived!" Olid told BBC Sport. "Home, work, home, work. My parents are here, my family are here and now I want to discover Manchester." It is a revealing admission from a manager who has been entirely consumed by the job since replacing Marc Skinner in the dugout, arriving from Hearts in the Scottish Women's Premier League to take charge of one of the WSL's biggest clubs.

A rough start, then a sharp upturn

The early weeks were not straightforward. United lost on the opening night of the WSL season and were then hammered 5-0 at home by Chelsea a week later, managing just two shots on target across those two fixtures combined. The noises out of Old Trafford — or more precisely, Leigh Sports Village, where United's women play most of their home matches — were understandably anxious.

But the picture has changed considerably since then. A draw at Arsenal offered a glimpse of progress, and United have now strung together four consecutive wins across the WSL and League Cup, scoring 18 goals in the process. Saturday's win over rivals Liverpool made it back-to-back league victories and moved the club firmly into contention.

"I am so happy for the players — they deserve it," Olid said. "We have started to click in a lot of things and they fight for each other. But there is still a lot to improve. We created chances, but our last pass and our finishing needs to be better. That will come."

Taylor frustrated by United's directness

Liverpool manager Gareth Taylor was in no mood to hand out compliments after the defeat, suggesting his side were caught out by Olid's approach. "They were very direct and we fell into their trap," Taylor said. "Their goalkeeper was literally kicking out of her hands. We have got to be braver and there are lessons to learn. This was the first time where we have not been a good reflection of ourselves."

It is a sign of United's growing confidence under Olid that they are now drawing tactical criticism from opponents rather than sympathy. The Spaniard remains grounded about how much work remains, but the momentum is clearly building.

A fortnight to breathe

United now have a fortnight away from WSL action while the Women's World Cup qualification play-offs take place across Europe. For Olid, it is the first real pause since she landed in the north-west — and she intends to make use of it. She trains her squad at Carrington in Trafford, the same complex used by the men's side, and admits central Manchester has so far been little more than a concept to her rather than a lived experience.

With family already in town to visit, the break has all the makings of a proper introduction to her adopted city. Whether the recommendations lead her to the Northern Quarter, the Arndale or somewhere along the Castlefield basin, United's fanbase will be happy to help — particularly given the form she has their team in.

Frequently asked

Who is Eva Olid and when did she join Manchester United Women?
Eva Olid is a Spanish football manager who took charge of Manchester United Women roughly two months ago, replacing Marc Skinner. She had previously managed Hearts in the Scottish Women's Premier League.
Where do Manchester United Women play their home games?
Manchester United Women play the majority of their home matches at Leigh Sports Village, which is around 12 miles west of Manchester city centre. The team trains at Carrington in Trafford alongside the men's squad.
How have Manchester United Women been performing under Eva Olid?
After a difficult opening to the WSL season — including a 5-0 home defeat to Chelsea — United have turned their form around significantly, winning four matches in a row across the WSL and League Cup and scoring 18 goals during that run.