From the bench to a new contract in the Michael Carrick revolution

Manchester United are on the verge of extending Harry Maguire’s stay at Old Trafford, with positive talks underway as the 2025-26 season nears its conclusion. The 32-year-old defender, whose current deal expires in June, is increasingly viewed as a central piece of head coach Michael Carrick’s evolving squad.

Maguire’s resurgence has been one of the campaign’s quieter success stories. After a nine-match lay-off with a groin complaint, he re-emerged to play every minute of four consecutive victories, re-establishing himself as a reliable organiser in Carrick’s back line. His timely return has been amplified by the long-term absence of Matthijs de Ligt, sidelined with a serious back injury.

Inside the club, Maguire’s leadership qualities and on-pitch rapport with Lisandro Martínez have not gone unnoticed. The pair have started 14 matches together since 2022, winning 11 and underscoring a partnership that United’s hierarchy believe can still deliver results.

While no paperwork has been finalised, sources indicate both parties are confident of striking a compromise. Discussions are expected to centre on a shorter extension or revised salary structure as co-owner Jim Ratcliffe continues to drive cost-control measures across the football operation.

For a player once deemed surplus, Maguire’s potential new deal signals a dramatic shift in perception—proof that Carrick’s revolution values experience as highly as youthful promise.