WHAT OCCURED? The manager of Manchester United has challenged Maguire to compete for a starting berth in his team but has admitted that if the center-back is not up to it, he should leave the club this summer. West Ham United have made a £30 million ($38 million) bid for the defender, which the Red Devils have accepted.
WHAT THEY SAID: During a press conference, Ten Hag stated, “He has the potential to be a top-class center-back.” Why should he not be the best for us if he is the greatest for England? But he must demonstrate it. When he lacks the confidence to battle, he must leave and make a decision. But I’m content with him.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Maguire was stripped of his captaincy by United this summer and is currently Ten Hag’s fifth-choice central defender, with left-back Luke Shaw ahead of him in the pecking order.
WHAT COMES NEXT FOR MAGUIRE? Ten Hag is said to want to bring in a replacement before releasing Maguire. The world’s most expensive defender could wind up staying at Old Trafford this summer, and he’ll be in the team for United’s Premier League opener against Wolves on Monday.