Maguire Commits to Manchester United with New Contract
Manchester United's defender Harry Maguire has signed a one-year contract extension with an option for an additional 12 months, ensuring his stay at Old Trafford extends into an eighth season. Maguire's previous deal was set to expire at the end of the current season. With this new contract, he aims to be part of a special campaign next season, believing the club is on an upward trajectory. "It's amazing to be at this club for seven years, and now it's going to be eight. I'm looking forward to it," Maguire said in a club interview. He emphasized the importance of a strong finish to the current season to position the team well for the next year. Maguire has been a key figure for United since Michael Carrick took charge, helping the club rise to third in the Premier League and earning an England recall. His recent form has been impressive, and he is determined to help United achieve regular and sustained success. Director of football Jason Wilcox praised Maguire, stating, "Harry represents the mentality and resilience required to perform for Manchester United. He is the ultimate professional who brings invaluable experience and leadership to our young, ambitious squad." Maguire's contract extension comes after he earned an England recall and featured in both March internationals, raising hopes of making Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad. He has started every game since Carrick took charge in January and has been instrumental in Manchester United's significant upturn, losing only one of 10 games. Maguire expressed his delight in extending his journey at the club, saying, "I am delighted to extend my journey at this incredible club to at least eight seasons and continue to play in front of our special supporters to create more amazing moments together." He also acknowledged the club's ambition and potential, stating, "You can feel the ambition and potential of this exciting squad. The determination throughout the whole club to fight for major trophies is clear for everyone to see, and I am confident that our best moments together remain ahead of us." Maguire's new deal will take him into an eighth season at Man Utd, having joined from Leicester in August 2019 for £80m, which remains a world record fee for a defender. He has won the FA Cup and League Cup in his seven years at Old Trafford, making 266 appearances across all competitions and scoring 17 goals.