Harry Maguire Takes a Pay Cut to Secure His Man Utd Future

Harry Maguire has put pen to paper on a fresh one-year deal at Manchester United, with the option to extend for a further 12 months, and reports indicate he accepted a reduced salary to make it happen.

The 33-year-old has had a turbulent spell at United. Joining as the priciest center back on the planet in 2019, Maguire gradually fell out of favor under Erik ten Hag. Ruben Amorim appreciated his aerial ability, especially at attacking set pieces, but was unable to promise him a regular starting role.

Michael Carrick has since brought Maguire back into his preferred starting back four, a setup the defender himself feels more at home in. As United look to reshape their midfield and ideally bring in an additional striker, the Red Devils have opted to keep Maguire for at least one more campaign to reduce the urgency for another defensive signing.

United have also managed to trim costs on Maguire's renewed deal. The Times reports that the England international has agreed to a new wage below his previous figure of $252,000 (£190,000) per week.

In The National, well-known United journalist Andy Mitten notes that Maguire turned down higher-paying offers from rival clubs to commit to United, a decision that suits him both professionally and personally.

Maguire Explains Man Utd Contract Extension Decision

"Pulling on the Manchester United shirt is the greatest honour of my career. It is a responsibility that fills myself and my family with immense pride every single day," Maguire told the club's official website.

"I am thrilled to continue my journey at this remarkable club for at least eight seasons and keep playing in front of our incredible supporters to share even more unforgettable moments together.

"You can sense the ambition and potential within this exciting squad. The drive across the entire club to compete for major honours is plain for all to see, and I firmly believe our greatest moments together are still to come."

United are well positioned in the battle for Champions League qualification, sitting third in the standings with a seven-point cushion over Chelsea in sixth. Maguire won't be able to mark his new deal in United's next game—a tough encounter with Leeds United on Monday night—after being sent off against Bournemouth prior to the international break.

Despite that setback, Maguire clearly remains highly regarded within the club's leadership. Director of football Jason Wilcox said: "Harry embodies the mentality and resilience needed to perform for Manchester United. He is a consummate professional who brings priceless experience and leadership to our young, driven squad.

"Harry, like everyone at the club, is fully committed to helping Manchester United achieve consistent and lasting success."