In a surprising twist to Harry Maguire‘s Manchester United story, the club has announced plans to extend the defender’s contract, marking a remarkable turnaround for the 31-year-old who seemed destined for the exit door just months ago.
The former club captain, who endured a difficult period under Erik ten Hag, has found new life under Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim, making seven appearances and even sporting the captain’s armband against Newcastle – his first time leading the team since 2023.
Speaking ahead of United’s crucial clash with Liverpool at Anfield, Amorim confirmed the club’s decision while laying out clear expectations for the England international.
“I spoke with him this morning and I told him he has to improve on the pitch. We need him a lot,” the manager revealed in a press statement.
Amorim, who sees leadership as a crucial missing piece in his United squad, believes Maguire can fill that void – provided he steps up both his game and his leadership qualities.
“When you look at our team, we are starving for leaders on the pitch,” the Portuguese coach explained.
“He is a leader, he has to improve that part, he has to improve his game, so we are happy to continue.”
The decision represents a significant vote of confidence in Maguire, who has weathered intense criticism during his time at Old Trafford.
“We all know the situation that he had here,” Amorim acknowledged, “but we need him a lot in this moment, so we are going to trigger, happily, the option for him.”
