Manchester United is going through a major shake-up under Rúben Amorim’s leadership. The Portuguese coach, in his first preseason with the club, has carried out a restructuring that’s completely changed the core of the squad. Thirteen players have left the team, including big names like Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho.
The decision gained momentum after Luke Shaw’s comments during a press conference in the United States. “His mentality, his demands, he (Rúben Amorim) is tough on the group. He doesn’t leave anything undone. I don’t think there are any lazy players in this squad anymore. Everyone has to put the team first. He made that very clear. He picks the team the way he believes is best for the club and that’s his call,” Shaw said.
Rashford, for instance, had a complicated relationship with Amorim. He was left out of key matches and publicly criticized by the Portuguese manager for “not giving his maximum” on the field. After that, he was loaned to Barcelona. Antony, Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia and Sancho have been training separately and didn’t take part in the preseason friendlies.
The decision marks the start of a cycle aimed at fixing a disastrous period. United finished the 24/25 Premier League in 15th place, just three spots above the relegation zone. They were also knocked out in the fifth round of the FA Cup and lost the Europa League final to rivals Tottenham. The atmosphere was filled with frustration, and Amorim hasn’t hidden the need to turn the page.
The new locker room atmosphere
With so many cuts, Luke Shaw has become the longest-serving player at the club and stepped up as the group’s spokesperson. The left-back described a very different vibe compared to last year. “We as players fully support him and what he wants to implement. We feel like a true team, the group is so united and that’s something we need to maintain to stay more like a family and make sure we’re heading in the same direction,” he said. Shaw’s words shed light on what’s been going on behind the scenes. It’s no secret that last season’s squad was seen as divided and lacking effort on the field.
Unity will be essential because the pressure is huge. United isn’t competing in the Champions League or any other European tournament and knows the demand for results in the Premier League will be immediate. Fans won’t tolerate another season like the last one. Shaw understands how serious the situation is but hasn’t shied away from being ambitious. “The goal has to be to win the Premier League. I know people will question me for saying this after last season, but it has to be that way and I’m not the only one who thinks so. Last year was horrible, I wouldn’t wish that on anyone. We have to leave it behind and focus on what’s ahead, on the future. I hope I can stay fit and give the manager an option for whatever he needs,” he said.
The rebuild that has to work
Manchester United knows it’s at a turning point. The restructuring led by Rúben Amorim wasn’t just about cutting players but about restoring a basic level of competitiveness. The manager has internal support to make changes and has already shown he’s not afraid of unpopular decisions. At the same time, he isn’t promising instant titles. What he demands is effort, intensity and daily commitment.
The departure of key players is striking but part of a process meant to build a more cohesive squad. Amorim has made it clear through his choices and in training sessions that no one will have a guaranteed spot just because of their name or past at the club. That kind of stance can shake up the internal hierarchy and may cause friction, but it can also reignite the competitive fire United has lost in recent years.