Melvine Malard has begun the Women’s Super League season in spectacular style for Manchester United, scoring four goals in the opening two matches.
On the opening matchday, she scored twice in the last 20 minutes to round off a 4-0 demolition of Leicester City.
And at the weekend, she struck a brace in three minutes just after half-time as United coasted to a 5-1 thrashing of London City Lionesses.
And Marc Skinner – in his press conference before the must-win UEFA Women’s Champions League third qualifying round second leg against SK Brann – drew a comparison with a United legend that might have raised some eyebrows.
Reflecting on the France international’s development since arriving at the club last year, he said of the 25-year-old: “She’s still young. You forget about that because of the experience she’s had with Lyon but honestly I can put it down to she now understands the language, so it’s easier to translate quicker in game for her, so she can get instruction, take it on board, and perform it.
“I’d also say Mel is probably the most Manchester United player I’ve ever met in my life. What I mean by that, and this is a big shout, if I go back to the Eric Cantona personalities, she has that personality. She can carry pressure moments and do it with a smile.
“That psychology is what stands her apart this season. Her communication has improved massively, and she’s just grown into that role. It just takes a bit of time.”
Melvine Malard and her career so far
Malard – who has represented France throughout the age groups, including at senior international level – spent seven years at Lyon, winning two Champions League titles.
She signed for Manchester United initially on loan for the 2023-24 season, helping them to their Women’s FA Cup win over Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley, before joining permanently last summer.
On making the permanent move, Malard said in a statement: “I am very happy to make my stay here at Manchester United permanent, after this great club and this great city became my home last season.
“Here I felt loved. Thank you to the fans for welcoming me so well – I will do what it takes to give you even more than last season and I look forward to more winning seasons together.”
Skinner described her at that point as: “an excellent character on and off the pitch, with winning pedigree.”
