One could argue that we’ve reached a point where Maguire should be replaced by Victor Lindelof. The fact that Ralf Rangnick continues to play the England international alongside Raphael Varane is concerning, and his performance against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last night was far from convincing.
Renan Lodi’s header after 42 minutes knocked United out of the Champions League in the last 16 on Tuesday night, extending the club’s five-year wait for the trophy.
Maguire was replaced in the second half by Juan Mata, who was brought on by Rangnick in an attempt to score an equalizer. Ironic cheers were heard from portions of the Old Trafford stands as he exited, which I believe demonstrates how much pressure he is under at the moment.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher told CBS Sport that Maguire needs to improve quickly (via The Metro): “The Manchester United captain, who cost £80 million, was taken off the field during the game.” He is currently experiencing the worst period of his career. We’ve all had that moment; I can recall it vividly from when I was playing.
This is what Harry Maguire is going through right now, and he needs to get out of it as soon as possible, or else he won’t be at the club since the standards at Manchester United are so high.
“Of course, he wants to [get out of it], but his mind will be all over the place since he is receiving criticism left, right, and center.” He’ll be chastised again – I believe the audience cheered when he went off. This is not a good thing for anyone.
“I’ve always admired Harry Maguire. He is chastised because he cost £80 million. Virgil van Dijk is the best defender in the world and costs £75 million.
“Harry Maguire isn’t that, but he also doesn’t set the price.” He had a fantastic summer with England at the Euros, but this season has been a catastrophe, and he almost has to get to the end of the season, forget about football, and get away.”
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Maguire may require a break from the team, but I don’t see how he has a future at United if the club intends to play with a high defensive line. Otherwise, the England international will be caught off guard, and United will concede more goals next season.
