Harry Maguire will have plenty of options available to him should he choose to depart from Manchester United. Erik ten Hag informed Maguire on Sunday that he would no longer be serving as captain of the team. This news did not come as a surprise to Maguire as there had already been reports circulating in the media about this decision early last week.
The 30-year-old consistently gives his all for United on a daily basis. He has overcome challenges and worked tirelessly to achieve his dream of becoming a professional footballer.
He is frustrated and feels as though he has been treated as a commodity, as if he is up for sale. The negative impact of social media on his public image has been profound.
He commands great respect among the players in both the United and England dressing rooms.
Gareth Southgate has emphasized to Maguire the importance of regular playing time to secure his position in the England starting XI for the upcoming Euros next summer. With three years remaining on his current contract at United, he also has the option to extend for another year.
West Ham among clubs monitoring Maguire situation
Maguire's outstanding performances in the 2021 Euros team have attracted the attention of clubs in the Premier League and beyond, with West Ham showing interest in signing the talented England international. Furthermore, his exceptional performances in the We team during the 2022 World Cup in December have further solidified his status as a highly sought-after player.The Hammers are reportedly considering the possibility of either a loan or a permanent agreement for the 30-year-old defender. Nevertheless, they are cognizant of the potential challenge posed by wages if an agreement were to be reached between the clubs.
Manager Ten Hag of United consistently emphasized that the final decision ultimately lies with the player, who is under contract with the club until the summer of 2025.
The club has expressed gratitude to Maguire for his captaincy for the past three and a half years. They also mentioned that the manager will announce the new captain at the appropriate time, after informing the players. However, the announcement of the new captain will be delayed as the squad is scheduled to travel to New York for pre-season later this week. The team will be traveling to the USA following a friendly match against Lyon at Murrayfield on Wednesday.
West Ham have identified alternative targets to Maguire, and are looking at Torino's Perr Schuurs, Bayer Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah and Luiz Felipe from Real Betis.
Maguire: I will continue to give my all
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Maguire is attracting interest from West Ham
Maguire confirmed on social media on Sunday he is no longer captain of Manchester United following talks with Ten Hag.
Earlier this month, there were reports indicating that Ten Hag was prepared to replace Maguire from the position due to his limited appearances under the Dutchman during the previous season. Maguire only started in eight Premier League matches, which has sparked continuous speculation regarding his future at Old Trafford.
"After today's conversations with the manager, I've been notified that there will be a change in captain," Maguire shared on Twitter.
"The manager has explained his reasons to me, and although I feel personally disappointed, I remain committed to giving my utmost effort every time I don the shirt."
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Manchester United fans for their tremendous support throughout my time as captain.
From the moment I took on this role three-and-a-half years ago, it has been an immense honor to lead Manchester United, and it remains one of the proudest moments of my career. Being the captain of this renowned club is one of the highest accolades in football.
I have exerted every effort to contribute to the success of United, both on and off the field.
"I am forever grateful to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for initially entrusting me with the captaincy. I extend my sincere well-wishes to whomever steps into the role next, as I hope for their triumphant endeavors. They can count on my unwavering support."
In a statement released by Manchester United, it was expressed, "We express our gratitude to Harry for his impactful leadership as captain throughout the last three and a half years. The manager will soon unveil the new captain, after informing the players."
Maguire 'can't have another season like last year'
United We Stand founder Andy Mitten on We News: "It is evident that Harry Maguire had been displaced from his position within Manchester United's team during the previous season, and it is reasonable to assume that the manager desires his captain to be a constant presence on the field."Many United fans will support the manager's decision. Although he has been successful at the club thus far, today is undeniably a bad day for Harry Maguire. With two years remaining on his contract and the potential for an additional year, footballers ultimately aspire to actively participate in the game. It is evident that he cannot endure a repeat of last year's performance.
I don't believe he performed poorly during his playtime. It is evident that Harry is a capable player, which he has demonstrated enough times for both Manchester United and the England team.
However, Harry Maguire has no desire to be relegated to the position of Manchester United's fifth-choice central defender. His passion lies in playing football.
"From Manchester United's perspective, if the club receives a lucrative offer, they would certainly be interested in negotiating as he is a player who could fetch tens of millions."
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