Harry Maguire is deserving of a great deal of praise for the fantastic way he has transformed his Manchester United career. After a series of lackluster performances, it appeared certain that the center defender, who had been derided only a few years prior, would depart Old Trafford.
It seemed like the last nail in Maguire’s coffin when Erik ten Hag took away his Man Utd captaincy in the summer of 2023 and gave the armband to Bruno Fernandes instead. The England international knuckled down, remained silent, and is now enjoying the benefits that most players in Maguire’s situation wouldn’t have.
Maguire, who scored Man Utd’s thrilling game-winning goal in April’s thrilling 5-4 victory over Lyon in the Europa League quarterfinals, was crucial to the Red Devils’ surprising 3-0 victory against Athletic Club away at San Mames on Thursday. In an effort to qualify for the Champions League the following season, Ruben Amorim’s team now has a foot in the Europa League final.
Maguire was praised widely on social media for his outstanding performance on the right side for Casemiro’s opening goal, even though he played strong defense in Bilbao. It’s possible that the 32-year-old was closely observing Lamine Yamal’s footwork the night before since, like the Barcelona star, he twisted and turned an opposition defender before sending a precise cross into the box. View the video below:
Maguire Hears New Nickname For First Time
He reacted during interview on TNT Sports
After the game, Maguire was interviewed live on TNT Sports by reporter Becky Ives, who told the defender: “They’re calling you Harrydinho on social media right now, but you won’t have seen this because you just came off.” You have a new moniker!
In response, Maguire said, “It’s fantastic… There must be some nicknames for me out there!
“It was enjoyable to dribble a little bit outside and, of course, make a fantastic cross. They must have trusted me to get that cross in since there were so many bodies in the box. Casemiro put it in the net, and it was a wonderful header overall. It was a pleasant feeling. Watch the interview with Maguire below:
Bruno Fernandes Reacts to Maguire’s Dribble
Man Utd captain spoke about teammate after full-time
The other two goals for Man United before halftime were scored by Bruno Fernandes. Following Maguire’s rambling dribble, the Portuguese maestro was questioned about the amount of banter that had taken on in the dressing room.
I said, “What a winger!” right away. He probably didn’t even realize he had something in his locker. Not even the opposition had anticipated that.
“Harry is a much more confident man now,” Fernandes continued. It’s good for him because he’s scoring goals, playing excellent defense, and his position is getting stronger. He’s also a great leader.
xz
