Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim must make several adjustments to the current squad to make it as competitive as his former Sporting CP team.
Harry Maguire faces an uncertain future at Man United, with his contract expiring in June 2025. However, the club have the option to extend it by an additional year.
The England international has been injured since the 0-0 draw with Aston Villa in October.
He was part of the open training session at Carrington on Wednesday morning but was not deemed fit for the midweek Europa League clash with Bodo/Glimt.
His availability for today’s Premier League clash with Everton is still not confirmed. He could be a robust centre-back option for Amorim if he is fit.
Maguire could play a vital role in the centre of the three-man defence.
Matthijs de Ligt has started both games for Amorim in that role.
Given his immense potential and the value he adds, he is expected to remain a mainstay in the line-up.
Amorim has emphasized on several occasions that rotation will be crucial to maintaining squad freshness, especially with the demanding schedule ahead.
A back-three system suits Maguire more than a traditional back-four.
With two centre-backs alongside him, he doesn’t have to cover as much ground and is better shielded from the danger posed by speedy attackers.
The £15 million-rated star possesses a solid passing range, especially when it comes to delivering long balls from the back.
De Ligt lacks this quality, and Maguire could prove to be an asset in involving the wing-backs more effectively in the game.
If he can impress Amorim over the next six months, United may trigger the option to extend his stay until 2026.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.