Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone has paid an emotional tribute to head coach Marc Skinner after his departure from the club was confirmed on Monday, thanking him for guiding her through the "worst thing you could ever imagine."

Skinner left Manchester United by mutual consent just over a month before the Women's Super League season gets underway, bringing to an end a five-year tenure that delivered the club's first major trophy.

During his time at Old Trafford, Skinner took charge of 166 matches across all competitions, winning 106, drawing 26 and losing 38. He led the club to Women's FA Cup glory in 2024 and guided them into the Champions League group stage. His contract had been due to run until at least 2027 after he signed a two-year extension with a one-year option last summer.

England international Toone, who registered more appearances (93) and assists (28) than any other player under Skinner in the WSL, spoke movingly about the personal support he offered when her father passed away in September 2024.

"Me and Marc worked together for five years, and I have grown so much as a player and as a person," Toone told BBC Sport. "I went through the worst thing you could ever imagine, and he was there throughout it all."

Describing his support in intimate detail, Toone said: "He was there as a shoulder to cry on, but gave me freedom on the pitch to express myself. I will always be grateful that he was there to see me through that time."

"We had honest conversations. He was a good person, and he helped me come back to give all everything for the team."

"For everyone else, he made time to get to know players as people were away from the football pitch. I'll be grateful for our time together."

Toone surpassed only by Leah Galton (25) for goals under Skinner, with 25 goals, while only Katie Zelem (154) created more in the WSL than Toone's 149 chances.

Manchester United begin their 2025-26 season on September 4 away to London City Lionesses, aiming to improve on last season's fourth-place finish.