‎Why Harry Maguire Could Stay at Manchester United as Team-Mates Push for New Deal

‎Players inside the Manchester United squad are reportedly eager for Harry Maguire to remain at the club beyond this season, according to reports, as the defender approaches the final months of his contract at Old Trafford. The 32-year-old centre-back is nearing the expiration of his current agreement this summer, and uncertainty still surrounds his long-term future. However, those within the squad reportedly believe it would be unreasonable for the club not to retain the 64-cap England national football team international.

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‎Manchester United players reportedly want Harry Maguire to sign a new contract as his current deal nears expiry, highlighting his leadership, form resurgence, and dressing-room influence.

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‎Reports from The Sun claim that members of the United dressing room have clearly expressed their support for Maguire, hoping the experienced defender signs a fresh contract that could keep him at the club beyond 2026. His team-mates reportedly share a strong collective belief that he should remain part of the squad, valuing not only his performances but also his influence in guiding younger defenders such as Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro.

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‎Since completing his record £80 million move from Leicester City in 2019 — still the highest transfer fee paid for a defender — Maguire has experienced difficult and successful periods at the club. In recent seasons, however, he has rediscovered strong form, leading defensively and producing memorable match-winning moments, including goals against Olympique Lyonnais in the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals last year and against Liverpool FC at Anfield earlier this season.

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‎A source quoted in The Sun explained that many players believe it would be a major mistake if Maguire was not handed a new deal. The source said he has faced many challenges during his time at United but has worked through them and is currently performing at a high level. They also highlighted his strong reputation inside the dressing room and his willingness to help develop younger players, adding that he is widely respected and well-liked among the squad.

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‎Currently earning around £190,000 per week, any potential contract extension could involve a reduction in base salary, possibly shifting towards performance-based bonuses. Maguire originally earned his big transfer after impressing for Leicester and performing strongly at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He made an immediate impact during his early seasons and was named club captain by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2020. Later, he lost the captaincy under Erik ten Hag in 2023 and came close to leaving the club several times amid heavy media scrutiny.

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‎Despite that period, his improved performances and leadership qualities have made him valuable behind the scenes, especially for younger squad members. Recently, he earned Man of the Match honours during United’s 3-2 away victory against league leaders Arsenal FC. He has also developed a strong defensive partnership with Lisandro Martínez under manager Michael Carrick after returning from a thigh injury.

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‎Carrick praised Maguire following his performance against Manchester City, where he returned to action for the first time since November. Carrick said the defender provided a strong base alongside Martinez and noted the importance of experience in such matches. He also admitted there was some risk involved in selecting Maguire due to his limited recent training, but praised his commitment and described his performance as outstanding.

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‎Recent reports suggest Maguire is becoming more likely to receive a new contract offer, though his future is expected to become clearer in the coming months. With the club entering a crucial period of the season, strong performances — particularly if he helps the team secure Champions League qualification — could strengthen both his case and the squad’s push for him to remain.