Over the past few weeks, Harry Maguire's future has been surrounded by rumors due to his expiring contract at Manchester United and interest from the Saudi Professional League. Yet, the 32-year-old English center-back was pivotal in the 2-1 triumph at Anfield against Liverpool, netting the decisive header in the 84th minute, enabling Ruben Amorin to achieve back-to-back Premier League victories for the first time. Currently, Amorin is pushing the club to speed up the contract extension talks.
In recent weeks, Amorin has been under significant pressure, and Maguire’s goal further eased the Manchester United manager’s burden. After the match, Maguire received widespread praise.
From the away section at Anfield, the Red Devils supporters chanted his name loudly; moved to tears after scoring, Maguire raised his fist, struck the club badge, and gazed affectionately at the stands filled with fans he has won back.
In the same fixture last January, Maguire missed a near-certain goal in the final 20 seconds. This time, he didn’t let the chance slip, becoming the match-winner. "I love this club," Maguire stated on social media after the game.
Maguire added, "I’ve been here for seven years, and not winning at Anfield for seven years is unacceptable. It’s always been on my mind. Honestly, I’m now in the final year of my contract, so this might be my last time playing at Anfield for the club. That makes this victory truly meaningful because I’ve replayed this match in my head countless times."
According to "Football Insider," despite a potential £500,000 offer from Saudi oil tycoons, Manchester United still hopes Maguire will sign a new deal, and the player also wants to stay. His goal against Liverpool might be enough to prompt the club to hasten efforts to finalize an agreement.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mike Phelan revealed that Maguire has earned respect throughout the club through his hard work. "For Manchester United, Maguire is a vital player," Phelan said. "He sets a standard every time he steps on the pitch. I know he has flaws, but who doesn’t? His aerial ability is crucial for the defense because there’s no other defender willing to do the dirty work like him, and he’s also a major threat going forward."
Phelan continued, "If anyone still doubts how important Maguire is, they will be convinced after the Liverpool match. Additionally, he contributes behind the scenes, influencing many young players at the club, especially defensively. He’s a great role model for the youngsters. Regarding his contract, I expect Manchester United to offer him a new deal, and as far as I know, he’s eager to stay if possible. The chances of this happening are higher now than ever before, and they see the renewal as crucial."
Playing time at Manchester United is critical for Maguire’s decision to renew, as he also aims to return to the England squad for next year’s World Cup. Legend Wayne Rooney believes Tuchel should call up the £80 million Manchester United defender. "Maguire showed today why he deserves a spot in the World Cup squad; he’s so important," Rooney explained. "If it were me, I’d struggle to handle what he’s been through—being cyberbullied and even mocked in Parliament. He’s truly a tough man."
Maguire’s father, Alan Maguire, said, "People talk about Harry, they mock him, boo him, and treat him like a joke, but they never mention the points he’s won for Manchester United. Today’s goal was more than just a goal; it was a statement. You can laugh at someone, question them, but you can’t break someone who always gets back up. I’ve witnessed everything Harry has been through, and he and the club deserve every bit of glory right now."
Maguire’s Manchester United teammates also admire his journey. Captain Bruno Fernandes humorously merged Maguire’s head onto Brazilian legend Ronaldinho’s body. Defensively like Maldini, offensively like Ronaldinho—the greatness of Maguire speaks for itself.