When Manchester United arrived in Burnley on 7 January for the first match after the Ruben Amorim era, attention focused on Bruno Fernandes’ fitness and whether interim coach Darren Fletcher would start Kobbie Mainoo.
Harry Maguire’s inclusion in the travelling squad surprised many. The 32-year-old had missed nine games with a thigh injury, and his return had hardly been discussed.
Fletcher would have called on Maguire only in extreme circumstances. At that point, the defender had barely trained.
Four days later, Maguire played 11 minutes in an FA Cup defeat to Brighton, trying unsuccessfully to help the team. Fletcher gave Michael Carrick a valuable head start.
Despite featuring just once in almost three months, Maguire entered Carrick’s first Manchester City game at Old Trafford on 17 January with his mind ready, even if his body faced uncertainty.
Carrick acknowledged the risk. “It was a big ask for him,” he said. “Sometimes we take for granted what players do. It was a calculated gamble given he trained only a few days in eight or nine weeks. It shows what it means to him.”
Positive signs for a new Maguire deal
Carrick’s words hinted at Maguire’s mental strength. The former United and England midfielder knows the sacrifices players make to perform at the top level and the physical demands they face.
Maguire’s willingness to put himself forward at Burnley shows his attitude and value to the club. Sources close to his contract situation believe a resolution could keep him at United next season.
Nothing is agreed yet. Maguire could still negotiate with other clubs or United could walk away. But the mood is positive.
A compromise may be needed on salary—Maguire ranks among United’s highest-paid players, and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to cut costs—and possibly contract length.
Maguire played every minute of Carrick’s first four games in charge, including matches against Burnley, Brighton, and City. He proved his worth while Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined with a back injury.
Maguire brings experience, calmness, and crucial communication. He demands high standards from teammates and speaks up when they fall short.
His central-defensive partnership with Lisandro Martinez has developed quickly. Despite only 16 starts together since Martinez joined from Ajax in 2022, they show growing familiarity.
Early struggles under Amorim and Erik ten Hag, combined with injuries to Martinez, delayed their synergy. Yet, they have won 11 of the last 14 matches they started together, suggesting their fitness is key to United’s Champions League push.
Maguire back in England’s picture
England manager Thomas Tuchel noticed Maguire’s recent form, even though he last played internationally 18 months ago. “Back in the picture,” he said during this month’s Nations League draw.
Many United fans prioritize club results over international duty, and Maguire likely feels the same. Having played at two of the last three major tournaments, he knows strong club performances boost international opportunities.
Maguire appears settled in the north-west with his family and shows no urgent desire to leave. He has not spoken much about his future, but evidence suggests he remains committed to United.
“Obviously I have something in mind about what I want to do and where I want to be,” he said recently at a club visit to a football camp in Stretford. “It’s an amazing club to play for, and you’d be foolish to leave as soon as possible.”
