A key Manchester United star saw his future resolved with his team-mates clamouring for him to remain at Old Trafford
Harry Maguire of Manchester United reacts as he is sent off after being shown a Red card during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Manchester United at Vitality Stadium on March 20, 2026 in Bournemouth, England.
Harry Maguire's future was clinched last week(Image: Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
View 2 Images
The Manchester United squad have got their wish after Harry Maguire last week put pen to paper on a one-year extension to his contract. The bulk of the squad believed it would have been "madness" if the experienced defender hadn't been handed a fresh deal.
The 33-year-old is back in favour having endured a tough spell under both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim. The centre-back, who arrived at United from Leicester City for £80million, has proved to be an influential leader under Michael Carrick's stewardship.
Maguire has led by example for his colleagues and they were reportedly pushing hard for a new contract for the England international. A source told The Sun earlier this year: "The players think it would be madness if he was not offered a new deal.
"Harry has endured plenty of ups and downs at United but has come through all that and is playing really well. He's very well-respected in the dressing room and is passing on a lot of knowledge to some of the younger players like Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro.
"Everyone likes him and respects him and the majority of the players want the club to give him a deal." Reports emerged that AC Milan had been keen on Maguire during the January transfer window.
However, speculation surrounding his future ultimately amounted to nothing as the seasoned defender penned a new deal with United last week. His previous contract had been due to expire at the end of this season but he will now embark on an eighth campaign at Old Trafford.
Speaking of his delight at the new agreement, Maguire said: "It's amazing. Obviously, it's my seventh year. To be at this club, to play for this club for one game is really special. So, to be here seven years - it's going to be eight - I'm really looking forward to it.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 1: Harry Maguire of Manchester United celebrates the first goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Fulham at Old Trafford on February 1, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Harry Maguire signed a new contract last week(Image: Visionhaus/Getty Images)
View 2 Images
"A big, strong end to the season is the focus now, to put us in a strong position going into next year, and then we've got to make next year a lot better and a lot more positive and a lot more special. I'm really looking forward to it."
Maguire's new deal will be warmly welcomed by the senior dressing room, as the side look to secure a return to European football next season. United's revival under Carrick has been nothing short of remarkable for supporters, with the club firmly in contention for a Champions League berth.
Maguire believes the team have turned a corner and will make the 2026/27 season a "special year" for the club. He added: "I feel like we're in a good place at the moment. I believe we're in a forward curve with the club, and I want to be part of that.
Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image
Content Image
"I want to leave the club in a good place, when I do leave the club, and that's the most important thing. It's not about me, it's not about individuals. It's about the team and the club, and wanting to leave the club in a good place.
"I feel like next season could be a special year, if we carry on working hard, if we recruit well in the summer. It's a big summer ahead, but like I said, focus on this year to make sure we're in a good position for next year and then make next year a special year."