Harry Maguire, one of the most criticized players in world football right now, is slowly regaining his reputation and confidence at the World Cup.
The Manchester United club captain was under pressure coming into the quadrennial masterpiece having lost his place in his club’s starting XI.
But Gareth Southgate ignored the critics and pundits and chose to take his trusted general with him to Qatar and so far he has not disappointed.
Maguire keeps getting better
The 29-year-old was quite good in the opening match against Iran and even set up a goal and came close to scoring one himself.
He remained England’s best player in their disappointing draw against the United States in the previous match.
While he wasn’t called into action too many times against Wales, he was still a solid presence at the back and his passing was instrumental in putting the Welsh under pressure.
Harry Maguire’s match by numbers vs Wales:
92 touches 91.67% passing accuracy 7 final thirds 4 touches in opp. boxing 3 clearances 2 aerial duels won 1 interception
and 1 shot, but we won’t talk about that. ????#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/ScOqbNN714
– Squawka (@Squawka) November 29, 2022
Maguire completed the game with an impressive 92% pass completion rate while having 92 touches on the ball. The central defender also completed five long balls, the most in the game.
Unsurprisingly, the United captain was immense in the air, winning 100% of his aerial duels while also completing three clearances and one interception.
The form and confidence return
Southgate have entrusted Maguire with his favorite left-centre role, something Ten Hag has not entrusted to the defender since he arrived at the club.
But with the former Leicester City player gaining confidence and showing his passing range, Ten Hag’s options will definitely increase considering Raphael Varane’s injury history.
Maguire himself will be relieved to be playing regularly and have the confidence of his manager in a difficult season.
England emerged 3-0 winners thanks to a brace from United teammate Marcus Rashford to move top of their group and now face Senegal in the knockout round.
