Harry Maguire: From Outcast to Key Player Under Amorim

Harry Maguire’s role at Manchester United has been under intense scrutiny in recent seasons, but under Ruben Amorim’s tactical system, there is a pathway for his resurgence. Amorim, known for his preference for a back-three defensive structure, could provide the ideal platform for Maguire to re-establish himself as a key player. This system emphasises defensive solidity, ball progression, and positional flexibility—elements that align with Maguire’s strengths while minimising his vulnerabilities.

Maguire’s Fit in a Back Three

Maguire has been criticised in the past for having an apparent lack of agility, recovery pace and at times bad decision making. A back-three formation would suit Maguire’s game by offering him more protection and reducing the exposure he faces in a traditional back-four. Playing as the central defender in the trio, Maguire could focus on his strongest attributes: aerial dominance, reading the game, and distributing the ball from deep. His ability to step into midfield with the ball and deliver accurate long passes could be a vital component in Amorim’s transitional play, helping to launch counterattacks or control possession against high-pressing opponents. Maguire’s ability on the ball is one of the best across the entire United defence and he is a very progressive centre back despite what some fans and critics might tell you.  

The additional defensive cover provided by quicker, more mobile right and left sided centre-backs flanking him could alleviate concerns about his pace, which has often been criticised when he’s isolated against pacy attackers. Amorim’s back three demands precise organisation and leadership, both of which are areas where Maguire excels, as evidenced by his tenure as Manchester United captain and his consistent performances for England in similar systems.

The Path to Redemption

Maguire’s performances have steadily improved this season as he has returned from injury, with his contributions being pivotal in key games including a colossus of a performance in the Manchester derby in December. Under Amorim, a manager renowned for revitalising players and adapting systems to their strengths, Maguire could continue this upward trajectory. A consistent run of performances in a back three would not only boost his confidence but also restore trust among fans and within the club hierarchy.

A strong second half of the season could see Maguire become an indispensable part of Amorim’s plans, especially in cup competitions or games requiring defensive pragmatism. With new signings Matthijs De Ligt and Leny Yoro still adapting to life in the Premier League, Maguire’s reliability and experience could still make him a valuable squad member.

Contract Extension Possibility

Maguire is 31 and his contract expires in June 2025 but there is an option for another year. If he thrives in Amorim’s system, a one-year contract extension would be a logical step. Such a reward would reflect his contribution to the team’s stability and his willingness to adapt to a challenging period in his career. Despite being stripped of the captaincy by Erik Ten Hag and handed to Bruno Fernandes, Maguire is someone who possesses leadership qualities in the dressing room and has the respect of his teammates. He is a character who is always willing to put the team first and uses his experience to help the younger players in the squad. Furthermore, Maguire staying at Old Trafford would ensure continuity and depth in defence as Amorim continues to implement his vision.

Maguire’s journey at Manchester United has been quite remarkable and he is now playing under his sixth different manager at the club. From the agony of missing the Europa League Final under Ole, to winning silverware with FA Cup and League Cup successes, he’s unquestionably experienced the highs but also the lowest of lows. The defender endured one of the most extreme, unwarranted, and deeply personal cases of public criticism we have witnessed. From battling injury setbacks, losing the captaincy, and facing exclusion from England squads to Manchester United negotiating his potential exit, he has risen above it all to earn a newfound respect and re-establish himself as a vital member of the team. His journey to redemption may not yet be complete, but the central centre back position in Amorim’s back-three system offers the perfect conditions for him to thrive.