Patrice Evra claims modern footballers would see boot cleaning as 'slavery'

February 18, 2026 • 0 • min read

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Patrice Evra claims modern footballers would see boot cleaning as 'slavery'

Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has sparked debate after reflecting on how football culture has evolved, suggesting that tasks once seen as a privilege by young players would be criticised by today's generation.

Speaking to The Telegraph about his time with the Red Devils, Evra contrasted the values instilled during the Sir Alex Ferguson era with the environment surrounding modern academy players.

The ex-France international argued that responsibilities such as cleaning senior players' boots - once considered an honour - would now be interpreted very differently.

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Evra, who spent eight successful years at Old Trafford, described how youth players were expected to look after first-team stars as part of their development.

Rather than viewing it as a chore, he said youngsters embraced the experience.

Back in the day the kids cleaned our boots - but it was like a reward. They would think, "Oh my God, I am cleaning the boots of [Cristiano] Ronaldo or [Roy] Keane or Giggsy [Ryan Giggs].

If you do this today the kids will maybe call it slavery.

'Different generation, different education'

Evra was careful to avoid criticising young players directly, instead pointing to broader societal changes.

According to the former left-back, shifts in upbringing, expectations and player treatment have fundamentally altered how emerging talents view authority and discipline.

It is not their fault it is because we give them everything. It is different education, different parents.

He suggested that the demanding standards enforced by Ferguson might be difficult to replicate today.

If Ferguson gives some of those kids the hairdryer I am not sure they come and show up the next day in training.

Could I blame them? No. Because it is a different generation. It is society. It is bigger than football.

The "hairdryer treatment" - Ferguson's famously fierce dressing-room reprimands - became synonymous with the relentless mentality that drove United's success for more than two decades.

How academy life has changed

Football academies have undergone a dramatic transformation since Evra's early years in the professional game.

Modern prospects often benefit from elite facilities, personalised coaching, and commercial opportunities long before establishing themselves at senior level.

Today's young players commonly secure boot sponsorships, brand partnerships and lucrative contracts at a much earlier stage.

Clubs also invest heavily in player welfare, sports psychology and lifestyle management, creating an environment designed to maximise performance and comfort.

Whilst these advancements are widely viewed as progress, Evra questioned whether something vital may have been lost.

In the past we learned the tough way and that is what we know and that is where we perform the best.

Ongoing debate in modern football

Evra's comments tap into a familiar discussion within elite sport: has increased professionalism softened the competitive edge once forged through adversity?

Supporters of modern academy systems highlight improved safeguarding, mental health awareness and technical development.

Critics, however, warn that reduced exposure to hardship may impact discipline and mentality.

Evra's reflections offer a perspective shaped by one of football's most decorated dressing rooms, and are likely to reignite conversation about how best to prepare the stars of tomorrow.

Whether viewed as nostalgia or insight, his remarks underline a simple truth: football, like society itself, continues to change.

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