Luke Shaw: Manchester United defender questions himself, team-mates after ‘damaging’ UEFA Europa League loss - 'Are we good enough?’

React to this story

Luke Shaw did not hold back in his post-match interview with TNT Sports, after Manchester United were beaten in the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao. The 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur was described as "so damaging" by the England international, who questioned whether the United squad were up to standard. Nevertheless, Shaw has faith that Ruben Amorim is the man to turn the club around.

Best player in prime? Toughest opponent? EL final predictions? Bale, Rio Q&A

Video credit: TNT Sports

Luke Shaw insists that the Manchester United players need to question whether they are "good enough" to play for the club after losing the UEFA Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur.

Brennan Johnson netted towards the end of the first half in Bilbao, as Ange Postecoglou ended a 17-year trophy drought for Spurs.

For United, it was a missed opportunity to seal UEFA Champions League qualification and secure a third major trophy in as many seasons.

Transfers

Liverpool improve Diomande bid, United plan Shaw deal - Paper Round

19/06/2026 at 11:01

With Ruben Amorim's side languishing in 16th in the Premier League table with one match to play, Shaw said the result causes United "the worst" pain.

"I think the worst it possibly can," Shaw told TNT Sports, in response to how much the loss hurts.

"It's so damaging. I think not obviously just tonight, but also we know how big it was for the future, the things that come with winning the Europa League, the Champions League for next season.

Highlights: Postecoglou delivers as Spurs beat Man Utd to end trophy drought

Video credit: TNT Sports

"But it hurts a lot. To be honest, this season it's not been good enough. I've just said it [in the mixed zone], but I'll say it here again, I think us as players, we have to question are we good enough for Man United? Because this season is not acceptable.

"I think where we are in the league, the results we've had, it's not acceptable for a club like Manchester United that has won multiple trophies, that's always been one of the biggest teams in the world.

"At the moment, we're so far away from that, and I think us, as players, we have to take responsibility for that, because we're the ones that are on the pitch that need to deliver, and not just deny it.

"But I think it's been a whole season and it's been nowhere near good enough."

Pressed on his comment about the players needing to question whether their quality was up to the standard of United, Shaw stood by it, but had faith that Amorim would "turn it around".

"I stand by feeling that," insisted Shaw. "I think we do, after results like this, the season we've had, we have to question ourselves. It's about where we go from here.

"I think Ruben for sure has a plan. He knows exactly what's needed for this club and I'm sure he'll turn it around."

Amorim vows ‘I won’t quit, I won’t go away’ after Europa League final loss

Video credit: TNT Sports

The England international also had a message for the United fans, who have been "always there" to support the squad through a difficult campaign.

"It sounds a bit silly, but I can only say sorry to the fans," he added. "They deserve everything.

"To go through the season, to stay with us, to always be supporting us through a really tough and bad season, but they're always there.

"So I can only apologise to them for the season and just say thank you so much for the support. We do really appreciate that."

Stream the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and more on TNT Sports and discovery+

Premier League

Shaw reveals biggest difference Carrick has made at Man Utd

08/02/2026 at 16:37

UEFA Super Cup

Will Kudus mimic Palmer blueprint? Can Spurs catch PSG cold in Super Cup?

11/08/2025 at 14:26

Related Matches

Tottenham Hotspur

Manchester United

Commentary