In a season fraught with challenges for Manchester United, Harry Maguire has quietly emerged as one of the team’s most consistent performers. The England international, often maligned for his high-profile mistakes and hefty price tag, has won over critics with his resilience and improved form under manager Ruben Amorim. His latest heroics—a match-winning header in stoppage time against Leicester City in the FA Cup—have reignited the debate about his value to the team, with pundit Gary Lineker leading the charge in defending the much-scrutinised defender.
Maguire’s Redemption Arc
Since joining United from Leicester City in 2019 for a reported £80 million, Maguire has been a lightning rod for criticism. His struggles for form and confidence, particularly during the latter stages of Erik ten Hag’s tenure, saw him become a scapegoat for the team’s defensive woes. However, the arrival of Ruben Amorim has breathed new life into Maguire’s United career. Deployed as the central centre-back in Amorim’s three-man defence, the 30-year-old has rediscovered his best form, becoming a reliable and commanding presence at the heart of the backline.
Maguire’s winning goal against Leicester—a powerful header from Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick—was a fitting reminder of his qualities. It marked the first time a United player had scored a stoppage-time winner in the FA Cup since Anthony Martial in 2016, and it underscored Maguire’s importance to the team in crucial moments.
Lineker’s Defence of Maguire
Speaking on The Rest is Football Podcast, Gary Lineker praised Maguire for his contributions and argued that the defender is often underrated. “He is a former Leicester man as well—I think he is underrated at times. I think he is better,” Lineker said. “We all know he can be caught on the turn. He is not the quickest on the turn, but he is a great competitor. He is good on the ball, terrific in both boxes, and will get you the odd goal.”
Lineker also highlighted Maguire’s consistent performances for England, adding, “He has never let his country down when he has played—I am not going to be too begrudging of him scoring (against Leicester).”
Maguire’s Key Contributions This Season
Maguire’s resurgence under Amorim has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise turbulent season for United. The defender has started 11 of the 15 games he has played under the Portuguese manager, establishing himself as a key figure in the team’s defensive setup. His statistics this season paint a picture of a player who has stepped up when his team needed him most.
- Defensive Solidity: Maguire averages 1.8 clearances per game, the highest of any United player. His ability to read the game and make crucial interventions has been vital in shoring up a defence that has often looked vulnerable.
- Aerial Dominance: With 2.7 aerial duels won per game, Maguire has been a commanding presence in both boxes. His height and strength make him a formidable opponent in the air, whether defending set-pieces or attacking them.
- Ball Progression: Maguire’s ability to play out from the back has also been a standout feature of his game this season. He averages 2.2 accurate long balls per game, the second-highest in the squad, demonstrating his composure and vision under pressure.
The Long-Term Picture
While Maguire has been a reliable performer this season, there is a recognition that United will need to upgrade their defensive options in the long term. At 30, Maguire is entering the latter stages of his career, and the club must plan for the future by identifying younger, more dynamic centre-backs who can thrive in Amorim’s system.
However, until a suitable replacement is found, Maguire remains a valuable asset for United. His experience, leadership, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him an important figure in the squad, and his recent performances have shown that he still has plenty to offer.
A Player Reborn Under Amorim
Amorim’s decision to deploy Maguire as the central figure in a back three has been a masterstroke. The system has played to the defender’s strengths, allowing him to focus on his positional awareness and aerial ability while minimising his exposure to one-on-one situations. This tactical adjustment has not only revitalised Maguire’s career but also provided a blueprint for how United can get the best out of their players.
For Maguire, the challenge now is to maintain his form and continue silencing his critics. His performances this season have been a testament to his resilience and professionalism, and he has earned the right to be judged on his contributions rather than his price tag.
A Lesson in Resilience
Harry Maguire’s journey at Manchester United is a story of perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite the constant scrutiny and criticism, he has remained focused on his game, earning the trust of his manager and the respect of his teammates. His recent performances have shown that, when used correctly, he can be a valuable asset for any team.
As United look to rebuild under Amorim, Maguire’s resurgence serves as a reminder of the importance of patience and belief in players. While the club must plan for the future, they can take comfort in knowing that, for now, they have a defender who is willing to fight for the badge and deliver when it matters most.
For Gary Lineker and many others, it’s time to give Harry Maguire the credit he deserves. As Lineker put it: “He is underrated at times. I think he is better.” And on current form, it’s hard to argue with that assessment.
