Casey Stoney Takes Charge of Canada Women’s Team

Casey Stoney, the former Manchester United manager has become the new head coach of the Canada women’s national soccer team. The 42-year-old, who captained England during her playing career will start her role immediately and will lead the team in a three-match series at the Pinatar Cup in Spain in February. Stoney’s appointment follows Canada’s dismissal of English coach Bev Priestman after the 2024 Olympic Games drone scandal.

The Canadian team sought a new coach after the controversy where two members of the coaching staff flew a drone over a New Zealand training session during the Tokyo Olympics. The incident resulted in a year-long ban for Priestman and a six-point penalty for Canada. Stoney brings an impressive coaching background. She previously led Manchester United to promotion in the Women’s Super League and achieved two consecutive fourth-place finishes in England’s top division.

She also managed the National Women’s Soccer League’s San Diego Wave before the club dismissed her in June 2024. As a player, Stoney built a distinguished career, winning 12 major trophies with clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, Charlton Athletic and Liverpool. She earned 130 caps for England, captained her country and played in three World Cups. Stoney also captained Great Britain in the 2012 London Olympics.

In her statement, Casey Stoney expressed excitement about her new role, highlighting Canada’s strong tradition in women’s soccer. She committed to continuing the growth of the sport in the country and expressed enthusiasm about working with Canada’s talented players and connecting with passionate Canadian soccer fans.