Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand and ex-Premier League striker Peter Crouch have agreed on one Rúben Amorim man who wants a new contract at Old Trafford.
Manchester United are now the only team unbeaten in European competition this season, with United finding themselves 3-0 in the Europa League semi-final going into the second leg at Old Trafford.
Harry Maguire has been one of the “standout” performers in his side’s quarter-final and semi-final successes, with the 32-year-old scoring a dramatic 121st-minute winner against Lyon, and displaying some fantastic play as a winger to help United score their first against Athletic Club.
The former Leicester player was signed for £80 million, making him the most expensive ever defender, only recently being eclipsed when Josko Gvardiol signed for Manchester City.
During a period when United haven’t been at their best, Maguire has been synonymous with their woes over the six years he’s been at the club, but his performances this season have brought his reputation to an all-time high.
Ferdinand and Crouch heap praise on Maguire
With Ruben Amorim’s side confirmed to record the club’s lowest-ever points tally, and most likely their lowest-ever Premier League finish, the Europa League is a golden opportunity to gain Champions League football next season.
Speaking on TNT Sports, United legend, Rio Ferdinand heaped praise on Maguire, saying: “When you see what he’s had to go through at Manchester United, he’s been ridiculed, sometimes laughed at and he’s been made the butt of a lot of jokes.
“The character and personality he’s shown to withstand that and stay there when many people were saying ‘he might as well just go’. I probably would’ve said he should’ve gone for his own mental health.”
Peter Crouch echoed Ferdinand’s sentiment about Maguire rediscovering his form: “He was getting it [criticism] from all angles, and he’s always been a good player, and he’s never shirked responsibility.”
“You’re seeing the character come through now and the player he’s become again.”
What is next for Maguire?
Ruben Amorim is set for a major turnover of players in the upcoming summer transfer window, and Maguire has been rumoured to be one of the players touted to leave.
However, with his recent unprecedented turnaround, Maguire has now become one of the first names on the teamsheet under Amorim. The club triggered the former captain’s contract extension, which will keep him at Old Trafford until 2026.
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According to The Telegraph, Maguire wants to sign a new contract at the club that takes him beyond next summer, and would ideally want to end his career at Old Trafford.
With the England international’s lack of pace apparent, a back-three greatly suits Maguire’s strengths, which he showed when Leicester and England deployed the 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1. He has also earned the reputation as a clutch player, with the 32-year-old popping up with crucial goals when Amorim needs them.
With Maguire already helping his team gain a foothold in the final of the Europa League, the England international has the chance to cement his name in the club’s history books by helping his club qualify for the Champions League.
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