Manchester United’s initial move in 2025 showcased a certain straightforwardness. With over £200m spent during the summer transfer window, the club continues to seek buyers for players eager to depart from Old Trafford. Among them was one individual who wished to remain but was given no choice. On January 3, United activated the clause to extend Harry Maguire’s contract for an additional season.
This choice was not merely administrative; it stands as a testament to his personal rejuvenation. Although Maguire could have moved to West Ham in 2023, he chose to fight for his place instead. Once stripped of the captaincy by former manager Erik ten Hag, he has now been welcomed back into United’s leadership group by Ruben Amorim. As his new deal approaches its end next summer, Maguire indicated that, regardless of potential offers, his preference remains with United.
However, he had little say in the matter last January. “There was no talking,” he recounted. “They just activated it, and it got extended. This year, obviously, I’m up at the end of the year. I’m sure the club conveyed this summer that I can’t leave, even with other clubs inquiring about my situation and contract.”
“In the coming months, I’m confident we’ll have a discussion about our mutual intentions regarding an extension, or the transfer window will be open again in January. I have clear thoughts on what I want and where I envision myself. It’s an incredible club, and one would be foolish to want to leave as quickly as possible.”
While he could have been excused for seeking a less intense environment, one where the pressure wasn’t as palpable, Maguire believes that his difficulties were more transient than his detractors claim.
“I feel that, for the past couple of years, I have performed well for this club again,” he stated. “I had just about six months of a dip in form. The previous two years were strong. The last two-and-a-half years have shown significant improvement. Now I am in a good place with both the club and the supporters, building a solid bond with them.”
Maguire’s unwavering commitment to United has been complemented by a knack for netting important late goals. While he has often faced ridicule, he contends it mostly comes from rival supporters. “I truly believe much of the mockery on social media—memes and jokes—comes from fans of other teams,” he remarked. “That’s just part of the experience at this club. Even legends like David Beckham and Wayne Rooney endured similar treatment, and they’re regarded as world-class. Wayne is among the best to represent England and has faced significant abuse. You have to expect it.”
Maguire arguably receives this scorn more than most. As a frequent target, he insists: “I’ve always managed to cope with criticism quite well. It doesn’t overly bother me. I’ve remained mentally resilient through it all.”
Now, he aims to guide United’s younger members. Following their worst season in 50 years, which ended with a 15th-place finish, external criticism only intensified. “I trust they faced significant backlash after mistakes or poor performances,” Maguire said. “I hope they don’t delve into the comments or messages on platforms like Instagram when they have a difficult game.”
One reason for Maguire’s popularity within the team is his eagerness to lead by example. He recently attended the Manchester United Foundation’s holiday camp at Stretford Sports Village. Joined by Tom Heaton, Lisandro Martinez, Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui, and Bruno Fernandes, he is part of the leadership group. “The manager wanted a selection of players he could talk to rather than putting all the pressure on Bruno,” Maguire explained, fully aware of the responsibilities of the captaincy.
His primary role in defense provides him with insights into the attacking side, and he is optimistic about the trio United has signed for a total of £200m: Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko.
“This club requires players who can create chances and score goals, which has been fundamental to its history,” Maguire noted. “In a moment, Matheus can score from anywhere, Bryan can find the back post or curl one in, and Benjamin brings physical attributes—he’s quick, strong, and tall.”
Maguire did not feature in the starting lineup for the opening game of the season, finding himself on the bench during Sunday’s defeat against Arsenal. Nevertheless, he emphasizes his belief that both he and Matthijs de Ligt can coexist on the pitch, rather than simply competing for the central position in a back three.
He remains excited about the new beginning the season offers. “Last season was incredibly difficult,” he admitted. “With our situation in February and March, we had little to play for aside from the Europa League. It was quite challenging.”
The hope for United is that last season marks the low point and that they can rebound. If so, Maguire, who has emerged from his own challenging times, could serve as an inspiring figure.
Image Source: Harry Maguire @ Instagram
