Manchester United's Harry Maguire has received an additional one-match ban for unsportsmanlike conduct, resulting in his absence from the upcoming Chelsea match. An independent regulatory commission imposed the ban on April 1, citing Maguire's "improper manner" towards fourth official Matt Donohue after being red-carded against Bournemouth on March 20.
Maguire, who was already serving a suspension for the red card and missed the 2-1 loss to Leeds, admitted to the offense and was fined £30,000. According to the FA's written reasons, Donohue claimed Maguire said, "You're a joke, you're all a f****** joke," as he left the field, while Maguire claimed he did not insult the official but said "something along the lines of 'it is a f****** joke.'" With both Maguire and Lisandro Martinez suspended, United's center-back options are limited ahead of the Chelsea match. Analysis suggests that United may have to rely on inexperienced players or explore alternative options, including using Luke Shaw or delving into their youth ranks, to address the shortage.