There remains uncertainty over several players’ futures at Manchester United despite an upturn in form under Michael Carrick. A five-game unbeaten run has included wins over Premier League title challengers Arsenal and Manchester City.
Carrick was appointed as caretaker manager, and he leaves his role at the end of the season as things stand. That might not be the case if he continues to work his magic and guides the Reds to Champions League qualification.
The club’s legendary former midfielder has resisted making significant changes to his team amid their stellar form. He has particularly been able to put his faith in one of the Red Devils‘ longest-serving players, who could be playing his final season at Old Trafford.
Maguire’s uncertain situation
There are just over four months before four Manchester United players’ contracts expire. One of those is Harry Maguire, who has been sensational since Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim.
Maguire has been a mainstay in the United team, appearing in all five of Carrick’s games in charge. His defensive partnership with Lisandro Martinez is growing amid two clean sheets against City and Spurs.
The 32-year-old was at Old Trafford during Carrick’s first spell as interim coach. He joined the club from Leicester City in the summer of 2019 for £80m, making him the world’s most expensive defender.
Maguire’s current deal with United expires at the end of the season and speculation is growing over his future. He reportedly earns £190,000 per week and will need to take a pay cut to extend his stay with the Reds.
Maguire ‘madness’
The uncertainty over Maguire’s future has seemingly left his teammates pushing for him to stay. According to SunSport, his fellow players are eager for the veteran English centre-back to renew his contract. A source claims:
“Players think it would be madness if he was not offered a new deal.”
They add, “Harry has endured plenty of ups and downs at United but has come through all that and is playing really well.”
Maguire was relieved of the club’s captaincy back in the summer of 2023 after coming under immense criticism from fans and the media. His performances were constantly under the microscope because of the world-record fee the club paid for him.
The Englishman bounced back from a difficult period and has become a key player in recent years. He has also shown his leadership qualities without wearing the captain’s armband.
The source added, “He’s very well-respected in the dressing room and is passing on a lot of knowledge to some of the younger players like Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro… Everyone likes him and respects him and the majority of the players want the club to give him a deal.”
Maguire has remained tight-lipped over his future, but he has always shown his affection for the club. He is enjoying one of his best seasons at the Theatre of Dreams.
An easy decision
Should Maguire be willing to take a wage cut, it shouldn’t take INEOS much consideration to offer him a new deal. He has not only been vital at the back in recent seasons but also in the dressing room.
Bruno Fernandes’ future isn’t certain, and he will have a year left on his contract this summer. Manchester United need leaders at Carrington as the club looks to kick on and continue trying to return to the top of English football.
Maguire’s mentality has been admirable, and he’s put a nightmare period behind him. If he can remain fit for the remainder of the season, there should be little doubt over him extending his contract.
