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As the Women’s FA Cup final approaches, all eyes are on Melvine Malard, the on-loan striker from Lyon, who stands on the cusp of making history with Manchester United. The Red Devils are set to face Tottenham in a highly anticipated showdown at Wembley Stadium, a venue that promises to be brimming with excitement and the spirit of competition.
Malard, who joined Manchester United last summer, has quickly become a pivotal figure in the team’s quest for glory. Her desire to become “a part of Manchester United history” is palpable as she prepares to lead her team in the final. With United having never won the Women’s FA Cup, despite reaching the final last season, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The French international’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting her career at Saint-Denis FC on Réunion Island, Malard’s talent soon caught the attention of Lyon, where she honed her skills and collected an impressive array of silverware, including four Champions League titles and three French league titles. Her move to Manchester United on loan was a statement of intent, not just for her career but also for a club eager to establish itself among the elite of women’s football.
Malard’s impact at United has been immediate and multifaceted. Deployed across the front three, she has brought a blend of experience and calmness to the team’s attack. Her versatility has been a boon for manager Marc Skinner, who has utilized her in various positions to maximize her effectiveness.
The striker’s adaptability is matched by her ambition. As she prepares to play at a sold-out Wembley for the first time, there’s a sense of destiny about her words. “Who knows how many other times there will be? It will be amazing,” Malard reflects on the opportunity.
United’s season has been a rollercoaster, with highs and lows marking their journey. They finished runners-up in the Women’s Super League last year and currently sit fifth in the table. However, their FA Cup campaign has been a beacon of hope, highlighted by a semi-final victory over defending champions Chelsea.
As the final looms, Malard’s future at United remains uncertain, with her contract at Lyon running until June 2026. Yet, there is an option-to-buy clause in her loan deal, leaving the door open for a permanent move. For now, though, her focus is solely on the present and the chance to lift the FA Cup.
The final against Tottenham is not just a game; it’s a narrative of dreams, aspirations, and the relentless pursuit of history. For Melvine Malard and Manchester United, victory would be a crowning achievement, a testament to their growth and ambition. As Malard puts it, “When you play in a final you have to give it your all.” And come Sunday, she and her teammates will be ready to do just that.
