Harry Maguire Exposes How Man United Crushed His Summer Exit Dreams
Harry Maguire has revealed that Manchester United turned down approaches for the defender during the summer transfer window, though he hasn't dismissed the possibility of departing Old Trafford when January arrives.
The centre-back, who turns 33 in March, has now entered his contract's final year without any extension being finalized.
Earlier reports this month indicated that up to five clubs—including three Premier League sides and two Italian Serie A teams—had investigated the prospect of acquiring his services this summer. Maguire himself, while avoiding specifics, has now confirmed there was genuine interest. However, United declined to consider allowing the England international to depart at this stage.
"I'm quite certain the club made it clear this summer that my departure wasn't possible under any circumstances, despite other clubs making inquiries about my situation and contractual status," Maguire explained, according to The Times, while speaking to media at a Manchester United Foundation event.
"I'm confident that in the coming months they'll arrange discussions and we'll need to have conversations about our future direction and whether they wish to offer an extension, or the January transfer window will reopen.
"Naturally I have my own thoughts about my aspirations and goals. I prefer not to share those publicly, but this is an incredible club to represent and you'd be foolish to want to leave it at the first opportunity."
Maguire's mindset regarding the January window, when he'll have just six months remaining on his deal if no new agreement is reached, may depend on the amount of game time he receives before then.
The defender wasn't selected for United's season opener against Arsenal. Instead, Matthijs de Ligt was chosen for the central position in Ruben Amorim's three-man defense, alongside Luke Shaw and Leny Yoro, with Maguire making a brief cameo in the closing 10 minutes. Nevertheless, he appears confident that opportunities will present themselves, despite the absence of European competition.
"I'm certain I'll feature in numerous matches this season and will be starting many games from the beginning. I'm confident of that," Maguire emphasized.
"The manager faces many difficult decisions now. I believe our squad is extremely competitive, with excellent competition and high-caliber players in every position. Yes, Matthijs and I have been utilized in that central position, but we're also capable of playing on either flank in the back three formation. I've demonstrated that ability. There's competition throughout the team and I believe that creates a healthy environment within the squad."