Marc Skinner insists Manchester United will not abandon their Champions League aspirations despite a grueling 3-2 first-leg loss to Bayern Munich. The manager emphasized resilience, rejecting claims of naivety after conceding three goals, including an 81st-minute winner from Momoko Tanikawa. "We have belief," Skinner stated, highlighting the team's commitment to redemption in the return match.

The defeat exposed tactical vulnerabilities, particularly against Bayern's high press. Forward Pernille Harder exploited gaps in United's defense, mirroring her performance in the second half when Tanikawa assisted her goal. Skinner acknowledged two critical errors: failing to pressure the ball effectively and allowing long balls to bypass their midfield. "If we stop those chances," he noted, "they don't score."

United's squad depth emerged as a decisive factor. Japan midfielder Hinata Miyazawa, fatigued from the Asian Cup final, struggled to adapt, while Bayern rotated Tanikawa—who missed their Australia match—into a pivotal role. This imbalance in resources underscores United's challenge in competing at the highest level.

With a demanding schedule ahead, including a clash against Manchester City and the decisive Bayern rematch, Skinner remains steadfast. "We expect it to be difficult," he conceded, but vowed his players would give "absolutely everything." The second leg, scheduled for Wednesday, will test their resolve as they aim to overturn the deficit and advance in Europe's premier competition.