Former Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told Norwegian media that he still keeps in touch with Harry Maguire and is happy that his former student is playing well.
"I think Maguire has handled everything fantastically," Solskjaer, who led Man Utd from 2018 to 2021, told Norwegian newspaper Nettavisen on November 23. "It's not easy to overcome criticism. I've kept in touch with him and there's been nothing but compliments lately. It's not easy to leave Man Utd, because you know that almost every next destination is not as good as this club. Maguire's efforts are paying off, he's a good player and has a heart for the team."
When Solskjaer was in charge of Man Utd, the club signed Maguire from Leicester City in the summer of 2019, making him the most expensive defender of all time at $100 million. After just five months, the Norwegian strategist gave Maguire the captaincy and commented that he was one of the best defenders in the world.
Solskjaer (left) when he worked with Maguire at Man Utd. Photo: Sports Mail
During his early years at Man Utd, Maguire proved to be a leader for the team both on and off the pitch. However, the 30-year-old centre-back has declined significantly in recent seasons. He was benched by coach Erik ten Hag last season, and was stripped of the Man Utd captaincy last summer. The board wanted to push Maguire to West Ham, but he was determined not to leave and wanted to stay and compete for a place in the first team.
After being shunned by coach Ten Hag, Maguire has regained his starting position thanks to his relentless efforts. In the last five Premier League matches, he has played the full 90 minutes, contributing greatly to Man Utd's four victories. "I guess he's gradually learned who to listen to," Solskjaer added. "I'm very happy that Harry has proven what kind of player and person he is. That's why I gave him the captain's armband."
Along with Maguire, another player who Solskjaer has used heavily, midfielder Scott McTominay, has also played well this season and is gradually winning the affection of coach Ten Hag. "I know McTominay and Maguire have the quality, and I think these types of players deserve to be rewarded for their efforts," Solskjaer commented on his two former favorite students. "They are both the type of players you want in your squad."
Man Utd are currently sixth in the Premier League with 21 points, and bottom of Group A of the Champions League, one point behind Galatasaray and Copenhagen. After visiting Everton on November 26, Maguire and his teammates will travel to Turkey to face Galatasaray on November 29, before travelling to Newcastle's St James' Park next weekend.
Vy Anh
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