Manchester United Icon Steve Bruce Champions Harry Maguire Amid Contract Uncertainty
Manchester United legend Steve Bruce has publicly defended Harry Maguire, labeling the defender a "whipping boy" and advocating for the club to offer him a new contract. Maguire's current agreement at Old Trafford is set to expire at the conclusion of this season, leaving his future with the Red Devils in doubt.
Maguire's Form and Role Under Interim Manager Michael Carrick
The 32-year-old England international, who will turn 33 next month, has experienced a resurgence in form recently. Interim manager Michael Carrick has relied heavily on Maguire's experience, starting him in all six matches since taking charge. With key defenders Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt battling injuries, Maguire has been instrumental in Manchester United's improved results under Carrick's leadership.
Reports from the BBC indicate "positive" signs regarding a potential new deal that would keep Maguire at the club for at least another season. However, no formal agreement has been reached, meaning the possibility remains that his seven-year tenure at Manchester United could end this summer.
Steve Bruce's Strong Defense of Maguire
In an interview with the Daily Mail, former Manchester United captain Steve Bruce expressed his belief that Maguire has been unfairly criticized and deserves a contract extension. Bruce emphasized that Maguire has never let down either Manchester United or the England national team.
"I believe Harry has been made the whipping boy for too long," Bruce stated. "I don't think he's ever let Man United down. In that fact, he's never let England down either. As I said, I think he became a whipping boy for what was going on around him."
Bruce added, "I wouldn't be surprised if he gets offered a new deal. Why wouldn't you? I think centre-halves get better with age. I wouldn't be surprised if he went to the World Cup either. He's got good experience, he's played at the highest level, and he's given a reminder of just what he's about over the last five, six weeks in particular."
Financial Considerations and Potential Destinations
Maguire's future may ultimately hinge on financial negotiations. Manchester United is reportedly willing to offer a new contract but on reduced terms. According to The Sun, Maguire currently earns approximately £200,000 per week, and any extension would likely require a significant salary reduction.
If Maguire departs as a free agent, he could potentially secure a lucrative signing-on fee elsewhere. Several clubs have been linked with the defender, including:
- AC Milan
- Napoli
- Al-Qadsiah, the Saudi Arabian side managed by his former Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers
Manchester United's Summer Wage Bill Reduction
The Red Devils are actively working to trim their wage bill this summer. Several high-profile players have already left or are expected to depart:
- Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia have exited on free transfers.
- Marcus Rashford is anticipated to make his loan move to Barcelona permanent.
This financial restructuring adds another layer of complexity to Maguire's contract situation, as the club balances retaining experienced players with managing salary expenditures.
