Luke Shaw criticizes Manchester United’s “toxic environment” and praises Ruben Amorim’s impact

Veteran defender Luke Shaw has publicly addressed the troubled internal culture at Manchester United, describing it as “extremely negative” and “toxic” in recent years. Speaking from the club’s U.S. preseason tour, Shaw highlighted new manager Ruben Amorim’s discipline-driven leadership as a turning point in the team’s atmosphere and standards.

Shaw reveals behind-the-scenes turmoil at Old Trafford

In a candid interview this Wednesday (30), Shaw detailed how a lack of commitment and poor mentality had plagued the club. “For much of the time I’ve been here over the last few years, it’s been extremely negative. The environment can be quite toxic; it’s not healthy at all,” he revealed.

Shaw emphasized that positive energy and daily discipline are now essential to rebuilding a winning culture. The England international has been with Manchester United since 2014 and is one of the most senior voices in the squad.

Amorim sets new tone: “No more slackers in the group”

Shaw credited Amorim with instilling a more demanding and professional environment. “Ruben demands 100%. He doesn’t want anything less,” he said. The defender praised the Portuguese manager’s high expectations, particularly his zero-tolerance approach toward underperformance.

“There are no more slackers in this group,” Shaw declared. “If someone isn’t doing what he wants, then that’s how it should be. He’s right.”

Calls for senior players to lead from within

While praising Amorim’s leadership, Shaw also called for greater self-accountability among players, especially those with experience. “We, as players, especially the more experienced ones, need to demand more on a daily basis,” he stated.

He cited training discipline and punctuality as key areas that must improve internally. “Whatever the coach’s wishes, we, as players, have to deliver,” Shaw said.

United aim to bounce back after disastrous season

Manchester United are continuing their preseason tour in the United States with hopes of a major turnaround following a disastrous 2024/25 campaign, in which they finished 15th in the Premier League.

The squad has undergone significant changes this summer, both in personnel and culture, as Amorim seeks to restore the club’s identity and competitiveness at the top level.