Maguire opens the door to the 2026 World Cup

Once just a top backup during Ruben Amorim's tenure, Harry Maguire has strongly revived his career upon receiving the chance to start from coach Michael Carrick. The 1993-born center-back truly merits a place in the England team for the 2026 World Cup.

One of Carrick's most surprising decisions upon taking charge was to hand Maguire a starting role in the Manchester derby. Prior to that, the 32-year-old defender had missed nine matches due to a thigh muscle injury and had only seen limited minutes as a substitute in the FA Cup third-round loss to Brighton.

But looking at Manchester United's (MU) current revival, that decision clearly proved correct. Maguire has helped the Red Devils remain unbeaten in six matches under Carrick, including five victories. MU kept clean sheets in half of those six games, notably the 2-0 wins over Man City and Tottenham, and most recently a narrow victory at Everton's Goodison Park. Maguire has brought stability to United's defense, especially in aerial duels. In the recent match against Everton alone, he won 7 out of 9 aerial challenges.

He has also formed a effective partnership with Lisandro Martinez, especially with Matthijs de Ligt sidelined by a back injury with no return date set. Surprisingly, this defensive duo has started together only 16 times since Martinez joined Old Trafford from Ajax four years ago. Maguire also provides a mental backbone thanks to his leadership qualities and strong communication with his teammates.

This will certainly have a positive impact on the negotiations for a new contract with Maguire. MU cannot afford to lose another experienced player with leadership qualities after Casemiro's confirmed departure this summer. Maguire is willing to reduce his salary to stay, while United wants the 1993-born defender to remain for at least another season as a pillar for the team, regardless of whether Carrick or another manager is in charge next season.

Performing well at MU has swung the door wide open for Maguire's return to the England national team. Thomas Tuchel recently admitted he is considering the possibility of including him, Kobbie Mainoo, and Luke Shaw for the World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada this summer. Maguire has yet to play for England under Tuchel. The last time the 1993-born defender wore the national team shirt was the Nations League victory over Ireland in September 2024.

Compared to other English center-backs, Maguire is currently in the best form. John Stones has only just recovered from a thigh injury and was on the bench for Man City's last two Premier League matches against Fulham and Newcastle. Trevoh Chalobah has been struggling at Chelsea despite being a regular starter under Liam Rosenior. Only Marc Guehi has maintained form and been a consistent starter at the Etihad. Former MU player Steve Bruce stated it would be no surprise if Maguire is named in the 2026 World Cup squad: "Maguire is experienced, has proven himself at the highest level, and has never let England down whenever he has played."

Where Maguire undoubtedly surpasses the other English defenders Tuchel has recently called up is his experience in major tournaments. This 1993-born defender has participated in three major tournaments: the 2018 World Cup, EURO 2020, and the 2022 World Cup. These were all competitions where England performed impressively and came very close to winning. Tuchel needs a defender like him for his ambition to lead England deep, even to challenge for the 2026 World Cup title.