Amad Diallo reveals how the Manchester United dressing room has reacted to Harry Maguire’s new contract, stressing that the experienced centre-back is among the team leaders.
After months of speculation, Harry Maguire signed a new deal at Manchester United.
The 33-year-old England international has signed a contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until 2027, with an option to extend it by a further year.
Maguire has been a mainstay in United’s defence since Michael Carrick was appointed interim head coach, and he will remain part of the squad beyond this season.
Harry Maguire signs new contract
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Amad Diallo hails Harry Maguire as a Man Utd leader
Carrick has started Maguire at centre-back in every game over the past three months.
That will change next time out against Leeds due to Maguire’s suspension following a red card in United’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth.
Leny Yoro will start alongside either Lisandro Martinez or Ayden Heaven in Maguire’s absence, with Matthijs de Ligt still nursing an injury.
Amad Diallo addressed the media on Tuesday at United’s training camp in the Republic of Ireland.
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That gave the press a chance to ask Amad directly about how he – and others in the dressing room – feel now it has been confirmed that Maguire is staying at Old Trafford beyond his previous contract expiry date.
“Harry has been a good captain,” Amad said.
“Bruno [Fernandes] is the captain but he is one of them, he’s a big leader, he talks to everyone, especially the young lads coming from the academy.
“It’s important for the team and we’re really happy for him. We want to have him here for many, many years at the club.”
The news should put a spring in everyone’s step at the club.
Amad Diallo reflects on relationship with Michael Carrick
Amad recalled when he was first introduced to Carrick when the 44-year-old was working among Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s backroom team at United.
The Ivorian was playing for United’s under-21s at the time, but they also crossed paths in the Championship when Carrick was in charge of Middlesbrough.
Amad said: “I was young in that time, with no experience. He was there to help me, there to give me advice.
“I was playing a lot of games for Under-23s, I also remember meeting him at Middlesbrough when I was at Sunderland. I’ve known him for a long time. He has been doing so much for me.”
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