Manchester United’s unbeaten run continued with a 2-2 draw at Nottingham Forest on 1 November 2025 — but while the headlines went to Amad Diallo’s brilliant equaliser, Alan Shearer believes something deeper has changed at Old Trafford. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live before kick-off, the former England striker said what has impressed him “more than anything” is United’s attitude and the way the squad have weathered the storm after months of heavy criticism.
Shearer and fellow pundit Shay Given were quick to point out Benjamin Šeško’s struggles at Forest, yet the conversation soon turned to how Ruben Amorim’s side look mentally different. “They’ve worked hard to block out the noise,” Shearer explained. “Their attitude more than anything has impressed me. It’s been a difficult period, but the way they’ve come through that.”
Why Alan Shearer Thinks Manchester United Look Different
It’s rare for Shearer to focus on mentality rather than finishing or tactics, but this time his praise feels justified. United’s recent stretch of performances — gritty wins, controlled draws and visible unity — suggest a squad rediscovering belief. Shearer said the team are “playing with more freedom” and “enjoying it a lot more,” an observation that matches what fans have seen on the pitch.
That change in body language has coincided with experienced players like Casemiro returning to form and younger talents like Amad Diallo embracing responsibility. Amorim’s challenge now, as Shearer stressed, is consistency: keeping that confidence alive through the long winter schedule.
Amad Diallo’s Stats vs Nottingham Forest
| Stat (2025/26) | Amad Diallo |
|---|---|
| Goals | 1 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 0.18 |
| Total Shots (On Target) | 4 (3) |
| Expected Assists (xA) | 0.13 |
| Accurate Passes | 36 / 44 (82%) |
| Crosses (Accurate) | 2 (2) |
| Recoveries | 6 |
| Duels Won (Ground/Aerial) | 2 / 1 |
source: Sofascore match data – 1 Nov 2025
The numbers back up what supporters saw: a confident, hard-working display. Diallo combined technical sharpness with defensive graft, creating one key chance and tracking back relentlessly. His 82 per cent passing accuracy and full-mark crossing record underline a winger in complete rhythm.
Diallo’s Humble Response After His Goal
After the match, the 22-year-old was typically modest when asked about his stunning equaliser.
“I don’t know if it is goal of the season. We are really disappointed to go home with one point. We have confidence now. We believe in the manager and the system.” — Amad Diallo, post-match interview
That sentiment perfectly echoes Shearer’s remarks. Even amid personal success, Diallo focused on collective frustration and belief — the same mindset Shearer called United’s greatest improvement.
Our View: A Shift in Culture at Old Trafford
In our view, what Shearer spotted goes beyond results. United have rediscovered humility and work-rate, traits that once defined their best sides. The dressing-room mood appears healthier, senior players are setting standards, and the younger ones are matching them. Amorim’s system is finally producing balance: front-foot pressing without losing shape, risk-taking without chaos.
Mentally, this is a team unrecognisable from last spring. When pressure mounted earlier in 2025, heads dropped; now they respond with energy and composure. If that resilience continues, United’s ceiling this season could rise faster than expected.
Key Insights
- Attitude shift: Shearer praised United’s mindset more than tactics — calling it their biggest improvement.
- Diallo impact: Goal, 82 % pass accuracy, and six recoveries — a complete modern-wing performance.
- Casemiro back to form: The Brazilian’s leadership mirrors the team’s wider confidence.
- Noise blocked out: Players appear calmer under media scrutiny compared with early-season tension.
- Momentum test: Next fixtures will reveal if this mental reset holds under pressure.
What’s Next for Manchester United
United now prepare for a clash with Tottenham who lost yesterday against Chelsea, where Amorim’s side can extend their unbeaten streak to nine in all competitions. Maintaining focus and energy — the very qualities Shearer highlighted — will be key.
👉 Your turn, fans: Do you agree with Shearer that United’s attitude is finally back, or is it still too early to believe in a full revival?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 2 Nov 2025 10:33
United were very lucky, very lucky. That corner, wasn't a corner and the goal of Amad should have been called offside.
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