Mary Earps received a mixed reception from the outside Manchester United fans during her first return to Old Trafford since leaving the club in 2024.
Earps shocked Old Trafford fans when he decided to leave the Women's Super League team a year ago before signing for French club Paris Saint-Germain and recently hit the headlines again discussion the rift she had with Hannah Hampton during her stay in England.
Last season United qualified for Women's Champions League and were brought to face PSG at the championship stage, which is something of a homecoming for the 32-year-old goalkeeper.
Earps was cheered by the crowd as she took to the field to warm up before the game, but once the match began, her first performances were met with a loud chorus of cheers.
Those jeers were quickly drowned out by more cheers, applause and praise for the former England star, who made 102 appearances for United during his five years at the club.
“I was at Manchester United for five years and yes, I wish some things had happened a little differently. I felt it was the best thing to do, start a new chapter, and it was very sad to leave, but I look back with very fond memories,” Earps said ahead of her return to Old Trafford.
She added: “[It was] “Written in the stars,” some might say. From the moment they qualified, I knew this was going to happen. Back at Old Trafford, a special place with so many amazing memories.
Manchester United are in incredible form…they're having a really good time. I'm looking forward to it, I hope it's a special night and a really great game.”
When asked what kind of reception she expected, Earps was honest and pretty much predicted the reaction of Manchester United fans.
“I have no idea,” she began, “I hope it's good, but I'm probably expecting a little booing. I hope it's a little, but it could be a lot.
“I hope it's a great game and a really enjoyable one. It's an incredible stadium, two incredible teams, but I have no idea what the reception will be like.”
