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Red Devils cult hero bats for a new contract for ‘resilient’ Manchester United star

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 17, 2025 9:02 PM ET

Jaap Stam believes Manchester United must offer Harry Maguire a new contract

Manchester United’s defensive story has taken a surprising turn in recent months. Once under scrutiny and close to an uncertain exit, Harry Maguire has fought his way back into the heart of the team. His revival has drawn the attention of fans and former players alike. Former United defender Jaap Stam believes Maguire’s efforts deserve recognition. In an interview with Sky Bet, Stam praised Maguire’s attitude and the way he handled his struggles with dignity.

He said managers wanted to move Maguire out at one point, but he defender refused to give up. Instead, the 32-year-old stayed, worked harder, and earned his place in the starting line-up again. Stam believes that kind of determination deserves a new deal. However, he warned that Manchester United must consider Maguire’s age and decide whether to start planning for younger defenders.

He added that the issue concerns the club’s long-term plan, not Maguire’s professionalism. Stam believes Maguire’s future with England depends on regular playing time. If he stops starting regularly at Old Trafford, he might think about leaving. Yet, as Stam pointed out, a move away doesn’t guarantee minutes either. Everything depends on where the Englishman goes and how that club values him.

“He’s been professional and resilient, but the only question for the club is whether to invest long-term in him at his age or start building for the future with younger players. In terms of attitude and contribution, though, he’s earned a new contract.

“He has a lot of competition in the national team. To go to the World Cup, he needs to play regularly. If he’s not starting every week at United, he might look elsewhere – but moving doesn’t guarantee playing time either. It depends on the club and the situation he goes into.

“Sometimes it’s better to fight for your place where you are.”

Quote via: Manchester Evening News

Harry Maguire is ready to snub Saudi riches for a Manchester United stay and that shows he wants to keep competing at the top level in Europe.

Time for a smart renewal?

Maguire began his Manchester United career in August 2019. The club signed him from Leicester City for a record £80 million. Within six months, the Englishman began wearing the captain’s armband and played every minute of the 2019–20 league season. Over time, his level of performance dropped, and his confidence took a hit.

Between 2021 and 2023, Maguire lost his place in the starting XI and faced strong criticism. Despite that, he stayed and waited for his moment. Ruben Amorim gave the defender that moment, and Maguire found his form again. Since then, he has joined the leadership group once more.

Maguire helps the team and his fellow players both on and off the pitch. United’s management reportedly started talks to extend his stay. We also reported that Manchester United refused to offer Harry Maguire improved financial terms, though they want to renew him. His current contract runs until 2026. If the club offers Maguire a short-term extension with lower wages, it will suit both sides. It will reward Maguire’s professionalism and give the club flexibility to plan for the future.

Side by side, United must think ahead while appreciating what Maguire has done. His strength and resilience make him a dependable senior player. Yet the club must stay focused on building a solid new backline. That approach will keep the defence strong long after Maguire’s final season at Old Trafford. What do you feel? Do you want Maguire for one more year at Old Trafford?

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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