Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 1800 EAT on Wednesday 30 July 2025

Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has backed manager Ruben Amorim’s tough stance on improving dressing room standards, admitting the atmosphere at the club had become “quite toxic” at times.

Amorim, who took charge of a struggling United side in November, has called for greater commitment from the squad. He has also made bold decisions, including freezing out key players such as Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho — two of five players reportedly seeking exits during the close season.

“A lot of the time I’ve been here over the last few years, it’s been extremely negative,” said Luke Shaw, who has been at Manchester United since 2014.

“It can be quite toxic. The environment — it’s not healthy at all. We need an environment that’s healthy, that’s positive, that’s got good energy and happiness. When you have all those things, you feel free, and you express yourself more.”

Shaw credited manager Ruben Amorim for instilling a stronger mentality and raising expectations within the squad.

“Ruben brings demands. Mentality is a big thing. He talks a lot about it. He demands 100 percent and doesn’t want anything less. If someone’s doing 85 to 90 percent, it’s not enough. I think, especially this year, if you’re not doing the right things, you won’t play.”

Amorim was uncompromising as he questioned Rashford’s work rate, saying he would rather have the goalkeeper coach on the pitch than half-hearted players.

Rashford has joined Barcelona on loan while British media reports have linked Garnacho with a move to Chelsea or Aston Villa.

Luke Shaw’s comment really highlights the manager’s no-nonsense approach—performance over reputation. It’s clear the team respects that and is committed to meeting those standards.

United’s upcoming season kicks off with a big match against Arsenal on August 17, which will be a solid test after a tough previous year finishing 15th and losing the Europa League final. Are you following United closely this season? What do you think of their chances with this new mentality?

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