Erik ten Hag has done wonders with previously underperforming players and many of them began to show signs of reaching their enormous potential.
But then there’s Harry Maguire, the world’s most expensive defender, who has apparently lost his place under the Dutchman.
He was a regular for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who kept playing him despite some high-profile mistakes.
Maguire’s nightmare season continues
But the former Ajax manager is not of the same ilk and after some disappointing performances early in the season, the England international lost his place to Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
Since then, the club captain has had to settle for a place on the bench while landing a few cameos off the bench in almost every game.
But the former Leicester City man enjoyed a great World Cup with the Three Lions and was one of the few players to return from the tournament with his reputation improved.
And at that moment it seemed that he would return to the Red Devils with high confidence and start running.
Rio Ferdinand on Luke Shaw being cast on CB yesterday..
“If I were Harry Maguire, I’d be looking for a new club.” pic.twitter.com/O9w4RlFjKU
— Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) January 1, 2023
But illness meant he missed the opener against Burnley and compatriot Luke Shaw has since taken over the left-centre role, playing in both Premier League games so far.
It’s damning to see this for Maguire considering the absence of World Cup-winning defender Martinez. If he still can’t make the first XI, there’s little hope he can displace Ten Hag’s preferred duo in the future.
Maguire has once again been left on the bench and United club legend Rio Ferdinand has indicated that the 29-year-old’s time at United could be up and a move would be in the best interest of both parties.
Rio suggests Maguire should move on
“If I am Harry Maguire, I am looking for a new club at the moment, I have to be honest. You saw what he does for England, he’s flawless for England, he’s flawless for England. Put in good, solid performances for England.
“At Manchester United, it just hasn’t worked for him. This coach is showing in his team selection that he is not going to be one of the two or three best central defenders on his squad.
“So I’m thinking if I’m in his shoes, I’d be saying, find me somewhere else where I can go and enjoy my football and play regularly,” the former United defender was quoted as saying by BT Sport (via Metro). ).
United Matchday Magazine – Stay on top of everything in the red. Still itching for more United content? Get everything you need right here. For just £1.25 per issue / £3.75 per month, you’ll receive unique United information, delivered directly to your inbox, before every game and throughout the month.
Get exclusive preparation for every game, plus team news, tactics and history. Not only that – United Matchday is packed with articles, news, transfer news, riddles, nostalgia and humor. Impress your friends and stay on top of everything in red!
