- Tuchel suggests Maguire is fifth choice
- Manchester United star returned to England action
- Why Red Devils man is right fit
Thomas Tuchel has sent a clear message to Manchester United defender Harry Maguire. The German coach suggested he is not one of his first-choice centre-backs ahead of the World Cup.
United have been on cloud nine, and Maguire has played a key role in it. The 33-year-old has been a pillar in the back line, but his club impact hasn’t been strong enough to reclaim an undisputed starting berth in his national team.
The Three Lions have been in superb form under Tuchel, winning all their qualifiers. However, competition for places in the team is high amid the mission to win a major trophy for the first time since 1966.
Maguire returned to action for England and played under Tuchel for the first time in a 1-1 draw against Uruguay on Friday. However, the manager only sees him as a backup option.
The Tuchel and Maguire Saga
Tuchel has somewhat controversially claimed Maguire isn’t one of his preferred choices in defence. The former Chelsea boss hinted that he views him as his fifth-choice centre-back (via Daily Mail)):
“I haven’t changed my mind (on Maguire) but I see other players I like to start for us, I see other players ahead with a different profile.’
He added:
“I see Ezri Konsa ahead. I see Marc Guehi ahead. It’s no secret. I see Trevoh Chalobah, on the level of mobility, was slightly ahead of him. Also, John Stones, but he had injuries, so he (Maguire) needed to come in camp. I needed to meet him in person to see how he acts within the group.”
The England boss did credit the defender’s strength.
“I got exactly what I thought, solid, solid central defender play. That’s what he does. Very good on the ball, very calm, strong in the air, and in the weapon for set pieces.”
Considering the form Maguire has displayed under Michael Carrick, his stance could backfire for the 52-year-old and even cost England the World Cup. The Red Devils’ vice-captain has represented the Three Lions in three major competitions, but his preparation for this summer’s major tournament is different.
Why Maguire Deserves Better
Maguire has been a leader for the Red half of Manchester. However, Tuchel refuses to see this, putting him in fifth behind John Stones, Trevoh Chalobah, Marc Guehi, and Ezri Konsa.
Since Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim, he has been a solid presence. The defender has started all Premier League games under the interim coach and helped United to third in the table.
Moreover, Maguire has won 47 aerial duels in the Premier League season, made 12 tackles, nine interceptions, and seven blocks. In terms of leadership, he has 65 caps to his name.
This experience should surely put him above the younger centre-back options, as he knows the demands of international football. A mix of youth and veterans often make for a good balance.
