Janina Leitzig has made it clear she is ready to fight for Manchester United Women’s No.1 shirt after completing her summer move from Leicester City.
The 27-year-old joined United after Leicester’s relegation and has signed a contract running until 2029.
Leitzig now faces a significant battle for regular football, with Phallon Tullis-Joyce having started 21 of United’s 22 Women’s Super League matches last season.
Janina Leitzig ready for Man Utd goalkeeper battle
Speaking in a new interview with The Guardian, Leitzig confirmed United made it clear there would be genuine competition for the starting position.
The German goalkeeper intends to push Tullis-Joyce while maintaining a strong working relationship within Eva Olid’s squad.
Leitzig said she will concentrate on bringing as much quality as possible before leaving the final decision to the manager.
It adds another intriguing selection decision for Olid ahead of her first WSL campaign in charge.
United began Olid’s reign with a 1-1 pre-season draw against Leicester, with Elisabeth Terland scoring against Leitzig’s former club.
Leitzig also spoke positively about her early experience at Carrington, highlighting the standard of training and the quality of United’s facilities as major attractions behind the move.
Her arrival gives Olid two proven goalkeepers heading into the new season.
Tullis-Joyce established herself as United’s first choice last term, but Leitzig has considerable WSL experience and believes traditional goalkeeping qualities remain crucial despite the increasing demands placed on players with the ball at their feet.
She described shot-stopping as “the best part of goalkeeping” while also stressing the importance of being comfortable in possession.
United open their WSL campaign away to London City Lionesses on 4 September. Before then, Leitzig has the opportunity to make her case for the shirt during the remainder of pre-season.
