Manchester United are set for a crucial morale boost as a respected dressing room leader prepares to sign a new 2 year deal.
Manchester United’s ongoing rebuild is increasingly influenced by Michael Carrick. The former midfielder plays a key role in developing young talents like Kobbie Mainoo.
He is also convincing senior players such as Harry Maguire to commit to the club. Suggestions, such as from ex-Everton chief executive Keith Wyness, are growing that Maguire could agree to a new two-year deal after a dramatic change of heart.
That border impact would play a decisive role in Maguire’s possible contract U-turn. Once considered likely to leave, the defender may remain at Old Trafford after renewed assurances over the club’s long-term vision and squad identity.
Carrick’s emphasis on unity, accountability, and collective responsibility has reportedly resonated strongly with senior players, creating a dressing room environment in which experience and leadership are valued again rather than sidelined.
Wyness tips Maguire for fresh new contract
Speaking on FootballInsider’s podcast, Wyness said: “Well, just a few months ago we were talking about Amorim and I didn’t think Harry Maguire would be renewed at all, but then this whole, as I say, this whole feeling of being Man United again and having an identity of the people that are there, I think that Maguire will get an extension.”
He added, “I think that Carrick can understand the value he brings in the dressing room as well as on the pitch.
“He’s playing more as himself, I think as well, but certainly it’s more of a unity and an actual vision of where United are as a human group. And that’s what Maguire adds to that particular part of it, and I think they will keep him on.
“Now they’re learning their lessons now rather than just doing it off spreadsheets and looking at valuations and ages and data and the whole thing.”
What does this suggest for United?
Looking ahead, if Maguire is offered a deal, it would likely be for one or two seasons. “They’ve actually got a human feeling to it, and that’s going to prove, I think, that Maguire will be useful,” Wyness continued.
“They’ll probably give him two years or maybe one with an option, and I think that they’ll be better off for it, and I think everybody’s going to start settling down and getting some unity in the squad, which is what they needed.”
For Manchester United, this shift shows a significant cultural change under Carrick’s influence. While Mainoo represents the future, Maguire stands for stability, resilience, and leadership. Carrick’s ability to combine youth development with senior authority may be crucial in reshaping United’s identity.
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If this method continues, Old Trafford might finally be establishing the groundwork for a more unified, disciplined, and competitive squad. This squad would be based not just on talent, but on character and shared goals.
Ultimately, Carrick’s increasing role behind the scenes reflects a broader shift in how Manchester United is rebuilding. They focus on patience, clear goals, and thoughtful decisions rather than reacting impulsively.
After years of uncertainty, the club seems to be recognising the value of culture, leadership, and stability. If Carrick continues to support both rising talents and experienced players, his effect could reach beyond individual contracts. This could help establish a stronger and more successful future at Old Trafford.
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