Luke Shaw is in contention to start for Manchester United in the Europa League final vs Tottenham
Manchester United find themselves in a tense situation just before their biggest game of the season. With the UEFA Europa League final just days away, the atmosphere around the club is charged with anticipation and anxiety. The date against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao on 21 May represents much more than a title; it is a chance to salvage a campaign marked by inconsistency.
Ruben Amorim, in his first year in charge of the Red Devils, has had to contend with injuries, difficult decisions and a squad that has shown its strengths and weaknesses. Now, as he prepares the team for the latest big challenge, clear signs are emerging of how he might shape the defence, given concerns over the fitness of several key players.
Ruben Amorim hints at Luke Shaw possibly starting for Manchester United in the Europa League final
As per the club’s official website, Amorim hinted at his plans during the last press conference, revealing that Luke Shaw was recently substituted as a precaution. The idea was not tactical, but precautionary. Shaw had only just returned after a long absence, and Amorim preferred not to make too many demands on him. Leny Yoro, who had taken a leading role in the defence after Lisandro Martinez’s absence, also went off injured, leaving his availability in doubt.
Luke Shaw is in contention to start for Manchester United in the Europa League final vs Tottenham.
All the signs are that Shaw could have one last big night in this up-and-down season
“It was clear we cannot take a risk with several players. That was to save [him], especially in that kind of position.”
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Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven, two other important centre-backs, are also not at 100 per cent. This leaves Amorim in a compromised position. If Yoro does not arrive in time, Shaw could start in a high-demand final. Although his season has been inconsistent, the Englishman’s experience is unquestionable. The prospect of him returning to the XI opens up a number of question marks, but also offers some hope. United cannot afford mistakes. Between Champions League qualification and a European trophy, much more than prestige is at stake for United.
All the signs are that Shaw could have one last big night in this up-and-down season. His injury record has been frustrating for both him and the club, but his technical quality remains intact. He is one of the few defenders in the squad capable of breaking lines with passes from deep. Shaw has the composure needed on the big stage and already knows Tottenham. Amorim could use him wisely: give him limited minutes, avoid relapses and exploit his positional intelligence. In games where every detail counts, having someone like Shaw could make a difference.