Following Manchester United’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the 2025 UEFA Europa League final, Luke Shaw didn’t hold back in expressing his disappointment. The defender labeled the season as “unacceptable” and stressed that players must take responsibility for falling short of the club’s high standards.
The game’s only goal came late in the first half when Pape Matar Sarr’s cross took a deflection and found its way into the net, appearing to brush off Shaw last. Despite a determined push from United, including a close-range header by Rasmus Højlund that was cleared off the line, they couldn’t find an equalizer.
After the match, Shaw voiced his frustration, questioning whether the squad is truly meeting the expectations that come with wearing the Manchester United shirt. His remarks underlined the broader issues that have plagued the team all season.
Tensions within the side were also visible during the final, particularly when goalkeeper André Onana and Casemiro clashed in a heated argument following a corner kick, prompting captain Bruno Fernandes to step in and restore calm.
Since taking charge in November, manager Ruben Amorim has maintained the support of senior figures like Shaw and Fernandes. Nevertheless, the club now faces a tough summer, with speculation mounting that the entire squad could be up for sale as part of a major overhaul.
After a season marked by frustration and underperformance, Manchester United is staring at a crucial rebuilding phase aimed at reviving its stature and returning to contention both domestically and in Europe.
