Klimkova returned for her European break at the end of the last week and started working immediately to prepare United for its back-to-back title bid.

Her six-month absence gave Klimkova a chance to travel Europe and visit different teams after leading United through an undefeated campaign in her first year in charge.

It was the first time in her coaching career she had time to relax and take in new ideas, as well as achieving a ''life-long dream'' of getting her motorcycle licence.

But when the Czech Republic mentor arrived back in the capital, Klimkova wasted no time sending a message to her players and rival clubs and declared the best way to win again is to attack the rest of the competition.

''I heard this back-to-back expression from [Capital Football boss] Heather Reid when I got back, but our mission isn't to defend our title,'' Klimkova said.

''We won it [last season], no one can steal it from us. We have it. It's in a safe place. This season we will attack the championship again, that is our mission. We will attack this new one and the best way to defend is to attack. It feels like I was here only a week ago and it's good to be back with the girls and we will be ready to go.''

Klimkova is still putting the finishing touches on her new-look squad. Star goalkeeper Lydia Williams will miss the season while United States import Taryn Hemmings is not returning.

However, United has added one of the most decorated players in the women's international game - German defender Ariane Hingst - with MacKenzie Arnold and Trudy Burke fighting for the goalkeeping spot.

Hingst will arrive in Canberra tomorrow.

Klimkova spent the weekend at the Australian Institute of Sport putting 27 contract hopefuls through their paces at the United trials. Only a handful will advance to the next stage of the trials with Klimkova to invite up to seven more players to training this week to test them at the next level.

There are five free spots on United's roster for the season.

Star midfielder Sally Shipard is recovering from knee surgery, but Klimkova is confident the Matildas veteran will be fit for the start of the season.

If Shipard is not fit the coach will give the 25-year-old extra time to recover and avoid pushing her to rush back.

United will begin its season with a grand final rematch against the Brisbane Roar at McKellar Park on October 20.

''This time I had time for rest in the off-season … I did some work as a delegate and it wasn't just about coaching,'' Klimkova said.

''I had time for some holidays, I got my motorbike licence and that was my life-long dream so I might have to borrow Ellie Brush's bike.

''I couldn't wait to get back and be involved with a team every day, it is good for me. I'm happy with how the squad is looking, I'm just looking forward to getting back into it.''