It’s been an emotional ride for Luke Shaw at Manchester United—one filled with highs, crushing setbacks, and plenty of loyalty.
But now, after 11 years in red, the 30-year-old left-back might finally be preparing for his next chapter.
Competition for Minutes Is Growing—and Shaw Sees the Writing on the Wall
Shaw is fully aware that his time on the pitch could be about to shrink even further.
With Diogo Dalot, Patrick Dorgu, and new summer signing Diego Leon all vying for game time, opportunities in his preferred position are looking increasingly limited.
Even though Shaw still has two years left on his current contract, reports say he’s open to offers, especially from clubs in Saudi Arabia, where interest is already beginning to bubble.
Injuries Have Stalled What Could Have Been a Greater Career
Part of Shaw’s frustration likely stems from the injury-riddled journey he’s endured at United.
Since arriving in 2014, the former Southampton defender has missed nearly five full seasons due to various setbacks.
His most horrific injury—a double leg break in 2015—kept him out for almost 10 months.
In total, Shaw has suffered 28 separate injuries during his United stint.
Just last season, he managed only seven Premier League appearances, spending the bulk of the campaign recovering from knee, calf, and muscle issues.
Amorim Still Values His Experience—For Now
Despite the circumstances, new manager Ruben Amorim isn’t rushing Shaw out the door.
Earning £150,000 a week, Shaw remains one of the most experienced and versatile players in the squad.
He was even asked to fill in at centre-back during the Europa League final loss to Tottenham in May—a match that summed up United’s painful 2024/25 season.
Shaw was part of the squad that won the Europa League back in 2017, and his 388 career appearances for club and country make him a respected presence in the dressing room.
A January Exit Is Also on the Table
If Shaw doesn’t leave this summer, there’s still a strong possibility he could depart in January.
The timing may depend on how the squad evolves and whether opportunities arise during the first half of the season.
Shaw himself seemed to hint at a crossroads back in May.
After a dismal season that saw United finish 15th in the Premier League, he admitted the squad needed to take a hard look in the mirror.
Shaw’s Honest Reflection on United’s Collapse
In a candid interview with BBC Sport, Shaw didn’t sugar-coat his thoughts:
“It hurts a lot. This season has not been good enough.
Us as players, we have to question if we’re good enough for Man United because this season is not acceptable.”
He added that for a club with United’s history and prestige, this level of underperformance was shocking.
Still, he expressed belief in Amorim’s vision to turn things around, saying:
“Ruben for sure has a plan. He knows exactly what’s needed at this club. He’ll turn it around.”
Diego Leon’s Debut Could Be a Game Changer
One big reason Shaw’s future is uncertain is the arrival of 18-year-old Diego Leon.
Signed for £3.3 million from Cerro Porteño in Paraguay, the teenage defender already made an impression during his debut against Leeds, playing the first half in a goalless draw.
Amorim was quick to praise him afterward:
“He did really well. He’s learning things, he’s powerful, he’s going to be a very good player.”
Shaw Is Still Part of the Squad—for Now
To his credit, Shaw hasn’t checked out just yet.
He featured in the pre-season game against Leeds and is included in the squad for United’s U.S. tour, with a match against West Ham lined up on Sunday.
Whether this is a fresh start or simply a farewell tour remains to be seen.
But for a player who’s given over a decade to the club, Shaw’s next move will be watched closely—not just by fans, but by football insiders everywhere.