'Present and the future'- Manchester United star impressing with the ball; Ruben Amorim extols virtue

Ruben Amorim pleased with Harry Maguire’s resurgence at Manchester United

Manchester United are returning to Old Trafford to face Brighton with renewed energy after registering a hard-fought historic victory at Anfield. There is a lighter mood in the camp, and the team has already directed their focus on Brighton, who have tormented United in the past.

The manager, Ruben Amorim, looked calm at the pre-match press conference and handled all the important questions with poise. The 40-year-old did not discuss contracts but changed the topic towards the team performance and short-term goals. Amorim talked about Maguire’s recent performance and how he has become a vital part of the team.

He described Maguire as a vital figure. The defender’s new role in a three-man backline suits his strengths, and Amorim explained that keeping Maguire central helps him read the game better.

It stops the Englishman from drifting into wide spaces where opponents could expose his mobility. The Portuguese manager also stated that Maguire has adapted well to his system and keeps improving his traits with the ball at his feet. The coach made it clear that while Maguire’s age gives him experience, he still has more to learn.

The manager said that the tactical setup helps players in different ways. He explained that structure can hide weaknesses and highlight strengths. Amorim believes Maguire fits perfectly in this setup, as the defender uses his aerial ability to dominate during set pieces that often decide tight Premier League matches.

The 40-year-old reminded everyone that the Liverpool game is over, and the team must handle Brighton’s movement and intensity next. His message sounded deliberate, and he wanted his players to focus instead of celebrating.

“We are really happy with Harry. Not the time to talk about his contract because that gives the idea that we are thinking so far away. We are really happy with Harry; he is really important for us, but we just need to focus on the next game.

“It was good for him to play with three centre-backs. I think he feels more comfortable. Because he plays in the centre, he does not need to go to the side so much, so sometimes you help players with the way you play. Sometimes it is the opposite with some players. I am really pleased. He is not young, but he can learn a lot; he can improve. 

“I think he can be so much better with the ball because he has that quality, and he needs to show that. Nowadays, with the set pieces that you see, the amount of men that you put in the box and every cross from the opponent – everyone is playing like that. He is a massive player for us. I am really happy, but that game is in the past, that goal is in the past, and now let’s look forward to the present and the future.”

Quote via: Manchester Evening News

Earlier, we reported that Jaap Stam believes United must offer Maguire a new contract, while Nicky Butt said Manchester United failed Maguire by never giving him a proper defensive partner. These opinions add weight to the debate about Maguire’s future, but Amorim keeps attention fixed on the present instead of letting speculation grow.

Maguire’s tactical revival at Manchester United and Amorim’s silent deflection