Man Utd dressing room get exactly what they wanted after ‘mad’ situation | Football | Sport

The Manchester United squad have secured their wish after Harry Maguire last week signed a one-year extension to his contract. The majority of the squad felt it would have been “madness” if the experienced defender hadn’t been offered a fresh deal. The 33-year-old has returned to favour, having experienced a difficult period under both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim.

The centre-back, who joined United from Leicester for £80million, has demonstrated himself to be an influential leader under Michael Carrick’s management. Maguire has set the standard for his team-mates and they were reportedly advocating strongly 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.”

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Reports surfaced that AC Milan had been interested in Maguire during the January transfer window.

However, speculation surrounding his future ultimately were brought to an end as the defender put pen to paper on a new deal with United last week. His previous contract had been set to expire at the end of this season.

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.

“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 contract will be warmly received in the senior dressing room, as they look to secure a return to European football next season. United’s resurgence under Carrick has been nothing short of extraordinary for supporters, with the club firmly in the hunt for a Champions League place.

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Maguire believes the squad 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.

“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.”