Manchester United legend Paul Scholes was delighted by what he saw from Harry Maguire since his return from injury.
The iconic midfielder and his former teammate, Nicky Butt, caused a stir earlier this month for their mocking remarks towards Lisandro Martinez in the lead-up to the Manchester Derby.
The duo insisted that the relatively small Argentine defender will be brushed aside by Erling Haaland. However, their comments aged badly, as the 2022 World Cup winner kept the towering Norwegian in his pocket, as Michael Carrick enjoyed a winning debut.
While that episode prompted an ugly back-and-forth media row, it was refreshing to see Scholes making a rather positive comment on another Man Utd defender, as he hailed Maguire after his recent exploits.
Paul Scholes left in awe by Harry Maguire
The Sheffield native spent several weeks on the sidelines due to an injury, but Carrick decided to field him on his managerial debut against Man City.
Maguire produced a ‘phenomenal’ performance in the Derby, before doubling up with another fine showing in the dramatic 3-2 win over Arsenal on Sunday.
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Scholes applauds the 32-year-old who managed to turn his career upside-down after being an easy target for never-ending banter in recent years.
“He has shown unbelievable character from a place he was. And even his own fans were ridiculing him at times, weren’t they?” said the Man Utd icon during his appearance on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast.
“To fight back the way he has is unbelievable. Really, I say he looks young again. He’s got a bit of an energy, a bit of a burst about him.”
Why Man Utd should consider keeping Maguire
With only five months separating him from free agency, Maguire’s fate is anyone’s guess at this stage.
Man Utd’s decision to part ways with Casemiro hints that the club is aiming to lower the average age of the squad and reduce the wage bill, so it wouldn’t be a major shock if the English defender were to accompany the Brazilian to the exit door.
Moreover, Man Utd already have young defenders waiting in the wings, particularly Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven, while Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt represent both the present and the future.
However, Maguire’s current form suggests he still has a few good years in the tank, at least if he manages to stay healthy.
Therefore, if United secure Champions League qualification next season, they can afford the luxury of retaining an experienced profile within the squad, one capable of adding both quality and depth.
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