Few players have experienced the rollercoaster of highs and lows at a club as storied as Manchester United in the way Luke Shaw has. The English left-back, who joined United in 2014 as a highly-touted teenager, has faced injury setbacks, criticism, redemption, and eventually cemented his status as one of the best left-backs in world football. Shaw’s journey at Manchester United is a tale of resilience, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As of today, he stands not only as a defensive stalwart but also a crucial part of the team’s leadership and future.
The Early Days: A Promising Talent
Luke Shaw’s journey to Manchester United began at Southampton, where his talent as a marauding left-back quickly caught the attention of Premier League scouts. Shaw was lauded for his speed, positional awareness, and attacking instincts. Even as a teenager, he displayed the composure and intelligence of a seasoned professional, leading to widespread excitement around his potential.
In the summer of 2014, Manchester United, then under the leadership of manager Louis van Gaal, secured Shaw’s signature for a reported fee of around £30 million, making him the most expensive teenager in world football at the time. The move came with high expectations, with many believing that Shaw would be the natural successor to United legend Patrice Evra, and become the long-term solution to United’s left-back position.
Early Struggles and Injuries
However, Shaw’s first few seasons at United were far from smooth sailing. The young defender struggled to adapt to the physical demands of Van Gaal’s system and the weight of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world. His first season was plagued by inconsistent form and injuries, and he faced significant criticism for his fitness levels and performances.
The defining moment of Shaw’s early struggles came in September 2015 during a Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven, when he suffered a horrific double leg fracture. The injury sidelined him for almost a year and raised questions about whether he would ever return to the promising trajectory he had once been on.
The long road to recovery was filled with setbacks, both physical and mental. Shaw admitted later that the injury had left him in a dark place, but his determination to return to the pitch never wavered. Over the next few seasons, Shaw worked tirelessly to regain his fitness, though he often found himself on the fringes of the squad under managers like José Mourinho, who was publicly critical of Shaw’s performances and mental toughness.
The Mourinho Era: Criticism and Struggles
The José Mourinho era at Manchester United marked one of the most difficult periods in Shaw’s career. While Mourinho’s tough-love approach led to success for some players, Shaw often found himself on the receiving end of the manager’s sharp criticism. Public comments about his fitness and tactical awareness added fuel to the rumors that Shaw might not have a long-term future at the club.
Despite the criticism, Shaw continued to fight for his place. He showed flashes of his old self with strong performances, but Mourinho’s lack of trust in the left-back often left him sidelined for key matches. Many fans and pundits wondered whether Shaw would ever fulfill his potential or if his time at United was nearing an end.
A Turning Point: The Arrival of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
The turning point in Shaw’s United career came with the appointment of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager in December 2018. Solskjaer’s arrival brought a new sense of positivity and belief to the club, and for Shaw, it was a chance at redemption. Under Solskjaer, Shaw began to regain confidence and consistency in his performances, and most importantly, he began to enjoy his football again.
Solskjaer recognized Shaw’s attacking potential and allowed him more freedom to move forward, while also helping him improve his defensive awareness. The result was a rejuvenated Shaw, who started to excel both defensively and offensively. His pace, decision-making, and improved fitness levels saw him regain his starting position, and by 2019-2020, Shaw had once again become an integral part of Manchester United’s backline.
A New Role: Leadership and Versatility
One of the most significant developments in Shaw’s game under Solskjaer was his evolution into a more complete and versatile player. In addition to his defensive duties, Shaw became a key part of United’s build-up play, often operating as a deep-lying playmaker from the left side. His ability to carry the ball forward, deliver dangerous crosses, and create chances for his teammates made him a vital asset, especially in games where United needed to break down compact defenses.
Moreover, Shaw’s resilience and experience saw him take on more of a leadership role within the squad. As one of the longest-serving players at the club, Shaw became a figure of consistency and reliability, often stepping up in big games and setting an example for younger players coming through the ranks.
Peak Form: The 2020-2021 Season and Beyond
The 2020-2021 season marked the pinnacle of Luke Shaw’s career so far. During that campaign, Shaw delivered a series of outstanding performances, cementing his reputation as one of the best left-backs in Europe. His defensive solidity, combined with his attacking contributions, helped United to a second-place finish in the Premier League and a Europa League final appearance.
Shaw’s standout moment came in the 2020 European Championship, where he played a pivotal role for England as they reached the final. Shaw was one of the Three Lions’ best players throughout the tournament, scoring the opening goal in the final against Italy and being named in the Team of the Tournament. His performances on the international stage highlighted his world-class abilities and showcased the mental and physical growth he had undergone.
Post-Solskjaer Era: Continuing Success Under Erik ten Hag
Following Solskjaer’s departure in late 2021 and the arrival of new manager Erik ten Hag, Shaw has continued to thrive. Under ten Hag’s more structured, possession-based system, Shaw has adapted seamlessly, maintaining his form as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League. His defensive positioning, ball progression, and composure on the ball have all improved, making him a cornerstone of United’s defense.
Moreover, Shaw’s versatility has been a significant asset for ten Hag. On multiple occasions, he has been deployed as a left-sided center-back in a back-three formation, further demonstrating his tactical intelligence and adaptability. His ability to switch between roles without losing effectiveness has provided ten Hag with tactical flexibility, and Shaw’s leadership qualities have continued to shine through.
Luke Shaw’s Legacy at Manchester United
Luke Shaw’s journey at Manchester United is a testament to resilience, hard work, and self-belief. From being the world’s most expensive teenager to enduring severe injury setbacks and public criticism, Shaw has emerged as one of United’s most important players. His resurgence, particularly in the last few seasons, has seen him recognized as one of the best left-backs in world football.
At just 28 years old, Shaw still has plenty of years ahead of him, and his influence at Manchester United will only continue to grow. Having already experienced the full spectrum of challenges that a top player can face, Shaw is now a leader both on and off the pitch. His ability to overcome adversity and elevate his game will serve as an inspiration for future generations of Manchester United players.
Conclusion
Luke Shaw’s career at Manchester United may have started with immense promise, but it’s his journey through adversity and eventual redemption that defines his legacy. As he enters the prime years of his career, Shaw stands as a crucial figure in Erik ten Hag’s United side, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence that the club demands.
