Michael Carrick Champions Man Utd Star's World Cup Comeback Bid
Harry Maguire hasn't represented England since 2024, yet Manchester United's interim boss Michael Carrick feels his experienced defender merits consideration for the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
"Harry's been performing admirably, I believe that's quite clear to observe," Carrick commented about the 33-year-old centre-back currently in his seventh campaign with Man Utd.
The England senior squad will reveal its March selection next week, prior to international exhibitions versus Uruguay and Japan at month's end. These matches represent the final opportunities before England boss Thomas Tuchel unveils his official 26-player World Cup squad in May.
Maguire's Revival
Maguire's Revival
Although serving as a regular under former manager Sir Gareth Southgate during England's semifinal and quarterfinal campaigns in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups respectively, Maguire hasn't featured for England since September 2024, appearing in a Nations League match at Wembley for his 64th international appearance.
The centre-back, nevertheless, has lately rediscovered his best form, returning to Man Utd's regular starting eleven in January following a persistent thigh problem and additional injuries during autumn.
"When you reflect on recent times, he was sidelined for an extended stretch due to injury," Carrick explained. "He immediately returned when we took charge, really, and we've been carefully managing his workload through matches and training sessions to get him physically prepared."
The Red Devils have suffered only one defeat—across eight matches—in domestic competition since Maguire's return to the starting formation on Jan. 17. They presently occupy third position in the Premier League standings, trailing Arsenal and Manchester City.
"[Maguire] has demonstrated his expertise and composure in key moments, he understands the requirements and has performed exceptionally well," Carrick continued. "He's certainly positioned himself for England selection if he was ever overlooked. He's absolutely in contention and hopefully from my perspective, he receives the call-up and participates [in the World Cup]."