Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho is widely known for his tactical brilliance and trophy-laden career, but he is equally recognized for his confrontational management style. During his time at Manchester United, Mourinho delivered silverware and stability, yet he also left behind a trail of controversies involving several players. One of the most notable cases was his turbulent relationship with left-back Luke Shaw.
Mourinho was appointed Manchester United manager in May 2016, signing a three-year contract to replace Louis van Gaal. Across 144 matches in all competitions, he recorded 84 wins, 32 draws, and 28 defeats—a win rate of 58.33 percent. His tenure delivered two major trophies: the EFL Cup and the UEFA Europa League. Despite those achievements, Mourinho’s reign at Old Trafford ended abruptly in December 2018.
Behind the success, however, tensions simmered—none more publicly than those involving Shaw.
A Relationship Marked by Public Criticism
Mourinho’s clashes with players were not uncommon, and while Paul Pogba often dominated headlines, Luke Shaw was another frequent target. According to reports from Daily Mail dated December 17, 2025, Mourinho allegedly mocked Shaw during Manchester United’s 2018 pre-season tour in the United States.
The incident reportedly occurred after a training session when players were returning via golf carts. Mourinho is said to have made a sarcastic remark comparing himself to television host James Corden—a comment interpreted as a jab at Shaw’s physical condition. The quip was widely perceived as demeaning, reinforcing the perception that Mourinho regularly used sharp humor to single out the defender.
Mourinho’s Public Rebukes of Shaw
The alleged nickname was not an isolated incident. Mourinho had previously criticized Shaw openly in 2017, questioning both his tactical understanding and decision-making on the pitch.
“He is in front of me, and I make every decision for him,” Mourinho said at the time. “He has to change the way he thinks about football.”
The former United manager acknowledged Shaw’s physical and technical qualities but suggested the defender lacked tactical alignment with his vision.
“We need his physical and technical quality, which is amazing, but he cannot play with my brain,” Mourinho added.
Mourinho went further, insisting Shaw needed to mature quickly to meet the demands of elite football.
“He has to speed up the process. At 21, you are old enough to have a better understanding. He has a future here, but Manchester United cannot wait,” he concluded.
The comments sparked debate among pundits and supporters, with many questioning whether public criticism was an effective motivational tool or counterproductive pressure.
Shaw Breaks His Silence Years Later
Several years after Mourinho’s departure, Luke Shaw finally addressed the strained relationship. Speaking in 2021, the England international admitted there was never genuine harmony between the two.
“It was obvious I was often on his mind, and he was often on mine,” Shaw said. “You can’t hide the fact that we didn’t get along.”
Despite the friction, Shaw was careful to separate personal issues from professional respect. He acknowledged Mourinho’s credentials and influence on modern football.
“I think he is a brilliant manager,” Shaw stated. “But the past is the past. It’s time to move on. I tried to move on, but it seemed like he didn’t.”
Lingering Tension and Ongoing Remarks
What puzzled Shaw most was Mourinho’s continued references to him long after leaving Manchester United. The defender suggested the repeated mentions were unnecessary and confusing, even to teammates.
“He kept talking about me, which I found strange,” Shaw explained. “Some other players even asked, ‘What’s the problem?’ and ‘Why does he keep bringing it up?’ He just needs to move on.”
Shaw’s comments resonated with fans who had witnessed his resurgence after Mourinho’s exit. Under subsequent managers, Shaw re-established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent left-backs, becoming a key figure for both club and country.
Mourinho’s Management Style Under Scrutiny
The episode reignited broader discussions about Mourinho’s man-management methods. Known for his psychological approach, Mourinho often uses public statements to challenge players, believing confrontation can drive improvement. While the tactic has worked with some individuals, critics argue it can damage confidence and relationships.
In Shaw’s case, many observers believe the criticism crossed a line. Rather than motivating the player, it appeared to create lasting resentment and hinder development during a crucial phase of his career.
Legacy at Manchester United Remains Mixed
Jose Mourinho’s time at Manchester United remains a subject of divided opinion. His trophy haul stands out in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, yet his confrontations with players and eventual breakdown with the squad left lasting scars.
Luke Shaw’s story serves as a reminder that success on the pitch does not always equate to harmony off it. While Mourinho delivered silverware, the human cost of his methods continues to shape how his tenure is remembered.
A Chapter That Still Echoes
Years on, the resurfacing of Mourinho’s alleged nickname for Luke Shaw highlights how unresolved tensions can linger in football’s collective memory. For Shaw, the focus has clearly shifted to the present and future. For Mourinho, the episode adds another layer to a legacy defined by both brilliance and controversy.
As football continues to evolve, the debate over tough love versus trust-driven leadership remains as relevant as ever—and the Mourinho-Shaw saga stands as a powerful case study in that ongoing conversation.
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