The journey of Harry Maguire from being deemed surplus to requirements at Manchester United to becoming Erik ten Hag’s linchpin represents a remarkable turnaround.
Last year, Maguire appeared destined for an exit, with Ten Hag reportedly open to his departure.
However, circumstances have dramatically shifted, with Harry Maguire now viewed as the savior of United’s turbulent campaign.
During the previous season, Maguire found himself relegated down the defensive hierarchy behind the likes of Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, and occasionally Luke Shaw.
Losing the captain’s armband to Bruno Fernandes felt like the ultimate blow. He nearly secured a 30 million euro move to West Ham, but his demand for a hefty payout stalled the transfer, leaving him at a crossroads.
Yet, Maguire’s resilience shone through as he refused to let setbacks define him. Throughout this season, he has consistently risen to the occasion, assuming leadership in a backline plagued by injuries.
While his peers nurse their ailments, Maguire, despite facing his own fitness challenges, soldiers on, providing stability and guidance to a depleted defense.
Erik Ten Hag says the Red Devils are happy with the display of Harry Maguire at Manchester United
The Manchester United gaffer said: “We are always very happy with Harry Maguire but he wants to play.
“He’s a great leader, he’s a very good defender, very comfortable on the ball and I count all of those abilities.
“We have had problems with our defensive line so it is even more important to lead that line, to make us play from the back.
“We are very pleased he is there and we need him to get our results and achieve our targets.”
His partnership with 19-year-old Willy Kambwala exemplifies his importance, particularly in guiding the youngster through high-stakes encounters like the recent clash against Liverpool.
Erik Ten Hag’s admiration for Maguire’s leadership and defensive prowess underscores his significance in United’s quest for success.
Additionally, Harry Maguire has moved from a phase of being ridiculed for howlers to an era where he is trusted by the fans to provide solidity in defense.
Despite his resilient display for the Three Lions of England, he was bashed and maligned for his inability to up the ante at Manchester United.
That now looks to be a thing of the past, with Maguire getting the nod of manager Erik Ten Hag in most matches this season.
Harry Maguire has made 27 appearances this campaign, scoring 2 goals and providing 2 assists in all competitions.
However, United’s recent form, marred by inconsistency and disappointing results, has dampened hopes of Champions League qualification via the league.
With just one win in their last six games, Manchester United find themselves trailing 11 points behind fourth-placed Tottenham, leaving the FA Cup as their last hope for redemption.
Facing Bournemouth, a team under Andoni Iraola, the Cherries had previously inflicted a 0-3 humiliating defeat on United at Old Trafford, this encounter presents another stern test for Ten Hag’s men.
The manager acknowledges the mental and physical challenges posed by such encounters, emphasizing the need for resilience and unity to overcome adversity on the pitch.
“This game will not be different, that is the way they want to play, they want to fight with you”, Erik ten Hag said.
“You have to go into that fight, have the conviction and need to support each other to win battles, outplay them, outrun them.”
Internal restructuring ongoing at Manchester United
Off the field, Ten Hag grapples with the club’s internal restructuring, marked by significant departures and new appointments.
The loss of director of football John Murtough, among others, underscores the ongoing upheaval at United under new ownership Jim Ratcliffe.
Despite the changes, Ten Hag remains focused on the task at hand, aiming to create conducive conditions for success amid the evolving landscape.
While uncertainties loom over Ten Hag’s future, he remains steadfast in his belief in the club’s potential and direction.
Acknowledging the pressures of the industry, he maintains optimism about United’s trajectory, rooted in the underlying potential and shared vision for success.
As the figurehead of Manchester United’s resurgence, Ten Hag accepts the inherent scrutiny and accountability that come with his role, likening himself to a politician bearing responsibility for outcomes beyond his control.
Yet, amidst the challenges, he remains resolute in his commitment to steering United toward success, drawing strength from the collective determination to overcome obstacles.
