Harry Maguire’s Man Utd career is not over after World Cup brilliance

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 23 May 2023 09:00 CDT
• 2 min read

Harry Maguire's career at Manchester United is still alive following his impressive form at the 2022 World Cup.

The central defender was yet again one of England's key players at a major tournament, continuing a common theme after his displays at the 2018 World Cup and the delayed 2020 European Championships.

However, he has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford this season, with new head coach Erik ten Hag favouring a partnership of summer signing Lisandro Martinez and France international Raphael Varane.

READ: Man Utd benchwarmer but England star: What is Harry Maguire's club future?

Maguire has therefore managed to muster just nine appearances in all competitions at club level in the 2022/23 campaign. Thanks to a hamstring injury and not being favoured by Ten Hag, the former Leicester City star has played just twice in Man Utd's past 12 league games.

But, his form at the World Cup could be the catalyst for a change in fortunes for Maguire. Alongside Manchester City star John Stones at the heart of England backline, Maguire helped the Three Lions keep clean sheets against USA, Wales and Senegal, while providing the assist for Bukayo Saka's volley in the opening game against Iran.

READ: Mbappe, Maguire and the World Cup Team of the Group Stages

Harry Maguire future: What has Erik ten Hag said?

Speaking to BBC Sport's Simon Stone, Ten Hag revealed that Maguire remains in his plans, especially if he's able to bring his international form to Old Trafford.

The Dutchman said: "Harry Maguire will have his chance. It's clear he is good enough to play at highest level.

"We want Harry to bring same energy as with England on the pitch for Man Utd. If he does that, he will be a great player for us."

Maguire remains Man Utd's club captain and he's still the world's most expensive defender of all time, but it seems like his performances in an England shirt may have saved his career at Old Trafford.