Ineos need to make a call on Harry Maguire’s future between now and the end of the season.
Harry Maguire has been outstanding over the past two matches, victories over Arsenal and Manchester City.
With United fans already facing up to the gap Casemiro’s exit will create, losing Harry Maguire on a free transfer is not very appealing right now.
Yet there is real uncertainty over whether Maguire will be offered an extension. He is a high earner and Ineos have high hopes for young duo Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro.
According to The Mail, club chief are worried that Maguire could hold the promising defenders back.
And while he is currently keeping them both out of the team, comments from Heaven and Maguire himself make for fascinating reading.
Manchester United Pre-Season Tour: Premier League Summer Series
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Ayden Heaven thankful to Harry Maguire
Ayden Heaven is already making an impression in Manchester United’s first team at the age of 19. He is a major talent who plays like a top star with a decade’s experience.
Speaking to United’s official podcast, Heaven has explained how Harry Maguire has been able to offer a helping hand behind the scenes.
More United News
Heaven said: “Yes, especially before games. I feel like when Harry’s not in the squad, he always tries to come over and just like, helps me and gives me advice on what to do.
“And obviously he knows a lot about the strikers that he’s played against them before, and it does help me, because I take it into the game.”
Maguire’s experience at club and international level is vast, and his willingness to pass on vital insight to his teammates demonstrates his personality as a team player.
Should Harry Maguire get a contract extension beyond the 2025/26 season?
Harry Maguire celebrating at Anfield
Photo by PETER POWELL/AFP via Getty Images
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Maguire says ‘team first’
Harry Maguire says that his advice is not just on offer for his younger teammates, he wants to help everybody.
The former club captain explained in his own words that he places Manchester United’s success above everything.
Maguire explained: “To all the players, really. If I’m not playing, I want the team to win.
“I’m at an age now where I just want to be part of a successful group, a successful team.
“You can go through a stage of career where you probably do prioritise yourself a little bit more, and you’re wanting your legacy or your individual performances to be really good, but I’m at a stage now where I just want to be part of a successful group.
“If I’m not there to help the team, I’ll do everything I can to help Ayden and make him feel comfortable to go and play.”
Maguire added that he felt Heaven had been ‘magnificent’ and ultimately the young defender deserves the credit.
While it is correct to give Heaven his due, Maguire’s selflessness demonstrates how he is the perfect teammate to have around in the dressing room, whether he is playing or not.
Ineos would be smart to take note of the comments from Maguire and Heaven, and recognise that the experienced defender will continue to be an asset, and not a negative for his young teammates.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox