Harry Maguire may consider leaving Manchester United this summer if Erik ten Hag continues as the manager, but reports indicate the defender will hold off on making any career decisions until there is clarity about the Dutchman’s future. Maguire has shown strong form for United this season, carrying over his reliable performances from last year.
Recently, he paired up with Jonny Evans in defense, scoring a key goal in a late draw against Porto and contributing to a clean sheet in a stalemate against Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Their combined experience could play a vital role as Ten Hag navigates a challenging period, especially with rumors swirling that the manager wants to move the Sheffield-born defender out of his squad. According to Football Insider, Maguire is closely watching the situation at Old Trafford and is interested in seeing if a managerial change happens before deciding his next steps. The defender is reportedly curious to know whether a new manager might offer him a more prominent role in the team.
Currently, Maguire earns £190,000 per week, and his contract is set to expire in June. As of now, there have been no talks regarding a renewal. If Ten Hag remains at the helm, Maguire might let his contract run its course. However, if there’s a change in management, he could consider staying at the club.
In the 2023/24 Premier League season, Maguire ranks 12th in squad appearances, with 22 games under his belt. He has scored two goals (ranking 7th in the squad) and leads the team in aerial duels won per match with 3.1. Additionally, he is second in the team for clearances (3.8) and interceptions (1.1) per game, earning him an overall match rating of 6.87, the 4th best in the squad.
Despite Ten Hag reportedly wanting to offload Maguire, there’s still a chance the manager could be sacked before any final decisions are made about the defender’s future.
United’s inconsistent season has put additional pressure on Ten Hag, despite a recent 2-1 win over Brentford. The team has managed only three victories in their first eight league games, leaving them 11th in the standings. Although Ten Hag signed a new contract over the summer, the poor run of results has raised questions about his future.
Potential replacements include Eddie Howe, Gareth Southgate, and Thomas Tuchel, although Tuchel recently took over as England’s manager. Maguire’s experience could become even more valuable if other defensive changes, such as the departures of Jonny Evans or Victor Lindelof, take place.
Early in his Manchester United career, Maguire was a crucial figure, missing just 12 of 114 possible Premier League matches during his first three seasons. However, his minutes have significantly decreased in recent years. Now in his sixth season, he finds himself lower in the pecking order, behind recent signings like Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, and Lisandro Martinez.
There has even been speculation from commentator Mark Goldbridge that Maguire might replace Bruno Fernandes in the starting lineup for United’s next match against Fenerbahce. As United looks to navigate the rest of the season, Maguire’s extensive experience, with 246 appearances, alongside Evans’ 383, could be critical in helping the team secure crucial points in tight matches.
