Manchester United Squad Unites in Support for Harry Maguire Contract Renewal
Manchester United are enjoying a rare weekend off from competitive action, with their next fixture scheduled for Monday at Hill Dickinson Stadium against Everton. This break follows their early exit from the FA Cup at the hands of Brighton, providing an extended period for rest and recovery. Under the stewardship of Michael Carrick, who remains unbeaten since taking over from Ruben Amorim, the team aims to maintain their top-four position and secure Champions League qualification.
Fitness Boost and Squad Updates Ahead of Everton Clash
The hiatus has allowed key players to regain fitness, with Mason Mount expected to return after missing recent games due to a muscle injury. Matthijs de Ligt is also nearing a comeback, leaving Patrick Dorgu as the sole long-term absentee. Carrick is optimistic about having a nearly full squad available for the remainder of the season, crucial for their push in the Premier League.
Dressing Room Consensus on Maguire's Future
Inside the Old Trafford dressing room, there is strong backing for Harry Maguire to receive a contract extension. Teammates reportedly believe it would be "madness" not to offer the 32-year-old defender a new deal, as his current contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season. Maguire has experienced a resurgence under Carrick, after limited opportunities under previous managers Amorim and Erik ten Hag.
A source close to the squad revealed, "Harry has endured plenty of ups and downs at United but has come through all that and is playing really well. He’s very well-respected in the dressing room and is passing on a lot of knowledge to younger players like Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro. Everyone likes him and respects him, and the majority want the club to give him a deal." This sentiment is echoed by growing fan support for Maguire's retention.
Matheus Cunha Praises Bryan Mbeumo's Impact
Meanwhile, summer signing Matheus Cunha has spoken highly of his teammate Bryan Mbeumo, emphasizing the attacker's unique qualities. The duo, who joined United last year for a combined £128.5 million, have contributed 20 goal involvements between them, quickly becoming fan favorites.
Cunha told Premier League Productions, "A lot of energy. What a lovely guy. I’m around him every day, he’s someone that is fun. To be together now and help United is something that when we arrive here, we feel like, wow, we can be a small part of the success of the team." Regarding Mbeumo's performances post-AFCON, he added, "He's very intelligent, he's very clever. So he can use his strength very, very good, like going to space, he shoots so well. This is the kind of number nine we need to have. Being around him in the pitch, we know he can create something special."
As United prepare for their upcoming match, the internal support for Maguire and the positive dynamics among new signings like Cunha and Mbeumo highlight a cohesive squad focused on achieving their seasonal objectives.
