By Football News Desk | April 24, 2025
New Short-Format Football Tournament Launches in Portugal
Manchester United are among eight teams set to participate in the inaugural Women’s World Sevens tournament in Estoril, Portugal, from 21–23 May. The competition introduces a seven-a-side format, featuring shortened matches and a $5 million (£3.76m) prize pool.
United will be joined by top European clubs including Ajax, Benfica, and Bayern Munich. Four more teams are yet to be confirmed, with potential participants from beyond Europe still under consideration.
“This is a really exciting opportunity to be part of something new for the women’s game,” said United manager Marc Skinner.
Prize Money and Format Explained
Funded by Chelsea and Gotham FC minority owner Jennifer Mackesy, the prize money exceeds that of both the Women’s Champions League and the Women’s Super League this season.
Teams can register up to 25 players but only 14 will be eligible to compete in 15-minute half matches on a half-sized pitch. Unlimited substitutions and fast-paced games aim to showcase creativity and pace.
All travel and accommodation costs for the teams will be covered, with prize money distributed among clubs, staff, and players based on internal agreements.
Impact on Euro 2025 and Club Seasons
The timing of the tournament—just three days before the Women’s Champions League final and six weeks before the Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland—has raised questions about squad selections.
Despite the proximity, tournament head of football Adrian Jacobs confirmed that teams will field “first-team squads,” and Manchester United’s Ella Toone, Grace Clinton, Millie Turner, and Maya Le Tissier are all expected to participate in some capacity.
Global Ambitions and Broadcast Plans
The Estoril edition is only the beginning. Organizers aim to host up to five tournaments a year across cities in the U.S., Mexico, Europe, and Asia. Matches will be broadcast via a multi-year deal with DAZN and may also appear on club platforms.
Estádio António Coimbra da Mota will host the games, offering a unique venue for a pioneering football format.
Player Welfare and Social Impact
Former England international Anita Asante, now on the advisory board, stressed that player welfare has been prioritized:
“It’s short-format games, so the physical load is different. Bigger squads mean more rotation and management of minutes.”
Asante also emphasized the initiative’s social goals: “It’s not just about elite clubs. We’ll engage grassroots teams too. This is about driving investment in the women’s game.”
Coach Marc Skinner added that it could be a great platform for players not heading to the Euros: “Let’s not dismiss this—it’s a valuable chance to see different talents on a global stage.”
Tags: Manchester United, Women’s World Sevens, Estoril, DAZN, Euro 2025, Marc Skinner, Ella Toone, Grace Clinton, Millie Turner, Maya Le Tissier, short-format football, women’s football investment
