Luke Shaw calls current United squad 'most talented' in his 13-year tenure

At 31, Luke Shaw is set to begin his 13th consecutive season in England’s top flight — a run unmatched by any other active player across all Premier League clubs since 2014/15. The Manchester United left-back started all 38 league matches last campaign, the first time he has achieved that milestone in his career and only the fifth such instance in club history since the league’s formation.

The most talented squad of Shaw’s United tenure

Shaw arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2014 as one of English football’s most promising full-backs. Injuries have punctuated his 12 years at the club, yet he has made 325 Premier League appearances for the Red Devils to date.

In a recent interview with MUTV, Shaw characterized the current group as “the most positive, happiest and probably talented” he has encountered during his time at the club. He added: “I think it’s 100 per cent true [that the mood in the camp is among the best I’ve known here]. Of course, like you have said, I have been in there for a long time now. So I’ve experienced different groups, different atmospheres but I would certainly say this is the most positive, happiest and probably talented group that we’ve had.”

He emphasized continuity and collective energy: “There is always the same hunger, the same excitement every pre-season but, you know, I feel really, really positive about this season – with the group, with the manager. You know, the way things are around the place. Everyone is extremely positive, so I’m really looking forward to this season.”

Mentoring new arrivals at the world’s biggest club

As United’s longest-serving player, Shaw has taken on an informal leadership role, guiding newcomers through the transition to life at Old Trafford. “Definitely, look I’ve got so much experience, from being at this club for so long. For me, the biggest club in the world and I think, you know, sometimes coming to this club, it’s not always as easy as you think,” he said.

“And, of course, for me, I’ve experienced it all and I’ve been through a lot of things here. Ups and downs. So I’ve learnt a lot and, for me, it’s about giving my experiences to them and helping them to adapt to this club quickly.”

He praised recent signings: “The players that have come in so far, they’ve fitted into the group really well. They bring really good energy, not just on the pitch but off the pitch. They’ve been great around the lads and really settled in quickly and, you know, for us that’s always important, to make them feel at home. They’re really good additions to the group.”

A record-setting Premier League streak

Following Seamus Coleman’s departure from Everton, Shaw is now the longest-serving player in the Premier League across consecutive seasons. Brighton & Hove Albion defender Lewis Dunk and Bournemouth’s Adam Smith have longer tenures at their respective clubs — but both spent time outside the top tier during those periods.

That distinction makes Shaw the sole active player to have appeared in every Premier League season since 2014/15. Reflecting on the achievement, he said: “That’s nice, I didn’t know that. Yeah, that’s very special to be honest. I feel extremely privileged to have been here for so long. It’s kind of like home really. So, yeah hopefully, I can continue that and have a good season this season.”

Contract status and future role

Shaw’s current contract expires in just under a year. Reports indicate Manchester United are already preparing succession plans for the left-back position. Yet his full participation in all 38 league matches last season underscores his ongoing viability as a first-team option — leaving open the possibility of a contract renewal.