Manchester United players are reportedly united in their desire for Harry Maguire to remain at the club beyond the end of his current contract, despite the defender entering the final months of his deal. The backing from the squad comes as the club prepares for further personnel changes, with goalkeeper Andre Onana also facing an uncertain future at Aged Trafford.
Maguire’s journey at Manchester United since his £80 million transfer from Leicester City has been marked by both scrutiny and periods of strong performance. He has develop into a respected figure within the dressing room, particularly for his mentorship of younger players like Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro, according to a source quoted in a British tabloid report. “The players think it would be madness if he was not offered a new deal,” the source said. “Harry has endured plenty of ups and downs at United but has come through all that and is playing really well. He’s incredibly well-respected in the dressing room and is passing on a lot of knowledge.”
While a contract extension for Maguire is not guaranteed and would likely require a pay cut, the players’ support signals a clear preference for his continued presence. This stance contrasts with the anticipated departure of Casemiro, who has already been confirmed to leave on a free transfer this summer.
The situation with Onana is markedly different. Having lost his place as the first-choice goalkeeper, Onana is currently on loan at Trabzonspor. Interim manager Michael Carrick has reportedly “given the green light” for the club to seek a permanent transfer for the Cameroonian international, despite Onana’s contract not expiring until 2028.
The change in goalkeeping fortunes at United has seen Senne Lammens establish himself as the preferred option between the posts. The club is now actively seeking a permanent destination for Onana, aiming to resolve his future during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Manchester United recently secured a 2-1 FA Cup victory over Leicester City on February 7, 2025, with Maguire scoring a late, and controversial, winning goal. The match saw United come from behind, with goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Maguire securing their progression to the fifth round. Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy noted after the game that the goal appeared to be offside, a point that was not reviewable due to the absence of VAR at that stage of the competition.
