It’s disgraceful: Megan Rapinoe criticises Man United over delayed investment in women's team

United States' Megan Rapinoe celebrates after scoring her side's second goal during the Women's World Cup quarterfinal soccer match between France and the United States at the Parc des Princes, in Paris, Friday, June 28, 2019. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

World Cup-winning U.S. midfielder Megan Rapinoe has denounced the lack of investment in women’s soccer around the world, saying it is “disgraceful” that a club like Manchester United had taken so long to revive their team.

United faced criticism for not forming a team after their women’s side was scrapped in 2005 and were granted a licence to play in the second-tier Championship in 2018.

The team immediately earned promotion to the Women’s Super League (WSL) and finished fourth in their maiden campaign in the top flight. They lead the table after six games this season following Sunday’s 1-0 win over Arsenal.

“Women’s football in England is the same as in America. It’s so far behind because of what we’ve had to overcome in the lack of investment,” Rapinoe told the BBC.

In this file photograph taken on July 10, 2019, USA women's captain Megan Rapinoe (R) celebrates next to NY Mayor Bill de Blasio in front of the City Hall after the ticker tape parade for the women's World Cup Football champions in New York. (Photo by Johannes EISELE / AFP)

“It’s 2020. How long has the Premier League been around? And we’re only just seeing a club like Manchester United put effort and pounds towards a women’s team? Frankly, it’s disgraceful.”

Several U.S. women’s international players have joined the WSL this season with Tobin Heath and Christen Press signing for United, Rose Lavelle and Sam Mewis moving to Manchester City and Alex Morgan sealing a loan switch to Tottenham Hotspur.

Rapinoe, who claimed the Ballon d’Or in 2019 after a career-defining year in which she won her second World Cup title, opted out of National Women’s Soccer League competitions this year.

“I’ve had a few teammates go abroad and play, while I’m training and trying to keep fit in the hopes that eventually we’ll be out of this hellscape,” Rapinoe said.

“I want to keep playing. I’m definitely not anywhere near retirement - I absolutely want to play at the Olympics.”