Despite the uncertainty surrounding his employment, the defender has enjoyed a resurgence on the pitch, proving his worth when it matters most. He was named Man of the Match in United’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Arsenal on Sunday - his 450th career league appearance - and played a pivotal role in the clean sheet victory against Manchester City the week prior.
Maguire has developed a reputation as a "big game player" this term. Although he has started only six league games due to a calf injury earlier in the season, his record includes wins against City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea. In the recent clash with the Gunners, he did not lose a single duel, either on the ground or in the air, underscoring his dominance against elite opposition.
Interim head coach Michael Carrick appears to have settled on Maguire as a key pillar of his back four. Unlike previous seasons where he often rushed back from injury, the England international waited until he was 100 per cent fit this time, a decision that has paid dividends with his sharpness and form alongside Lisandro Martinez.
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