John McGinn says surprise Man United star forced him to “adapt” his game | OneFootball

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Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has entered the final year of his contract and is yet to sign a new deal. The Englishman was indispensable for the Red Devils last season, starting all 38 games in the Premier League for the first time in his career.

Shaw was impressive as the left-sided centre-back under former head coach Ruben Amorim, before slotting back effortlessly to his natural left-back role under Michael Carrick.

Luke Shaw Stats: 2025/26 Season

Shaw also started at left back in United’s 2-0 defeat to Hull City at the MKM Stadium last weekend. The 31 year old failed to impress, and his contract situation means that the Red Devils have to lay down succession plans soon.

United already looking for Shaw’s successor

Shaw arrived at Old Trafford in 2014 as one of the most exciting young talents in English football. Unfortunately, his career with United has not panned out as expected.

Nevertheless, the player is now the club’s longest-serving player in the current squad and is also the first player to feature in every season of the Premier League since the 2014/15 season. However, that has not stopped the Red Devils from searching for his successor.

Recent reports relayed by The Peoples Person have named Lewis Hall as United’s priority target for the role, but all signs indicate that the player will not leave Newcastle United this summer. Meanwhile, the Red Devils also remain linked with Barcelona speedster Alejandro Balde as they look to add more quality to their left-back position.

The English giants also have other players on their radar, including David Raum. A new left-back cannot be entirely ruled out this summer, as United are reportedly prioritising the position and have Club Brugge’s Joaquin Seys on their wish list as well.

Shaw’s position at the Theatre of Dreams, as such, could come under threat in the coming days. The player may be on the wrong side of 30, but he is still highly regarded by his peers.

John McGinn hails Shaw

Speaking on Stick to Football, Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn named Shaw and Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori as his toughest opponents. He said: “Do you know who really surprised me? Calafiori. Calafiori and Luke Shaw would be my two hardest opponents.”

“Luke Shaw because I needed to completely adapt my game with Luke Shaw. Because we’re of similar build. He’s one I had to completely try and adapt [to]. Calafiori was much stronger than I thought, I was really impressed with him.”

Shaw has 326 appearances for United in his career, scoring five goals and setting up 30 more. He has faced McGinn 11 times for club and country, registering seven wins and just two defeats.

Final Thoughts

While Shaw’s experience will be important for United this season, the player’s poor injury history remains a cause for concern. With the Red Devils set to battle on four fronts this season, perhaps INEOS would be wise to invest in a new left-back.