Michael Carrick has publicly backed Harry Maguire as contract talks intensify over the defender’s future at Manchester United.
Talking on February 27, 2026 as confirmed by fabrizo romano by way of their official x deal with, forward of United’s conflict with Crystal Palace, the interim head coach highlighted the significance of balancing youth improvement with expertise within the squad. Carrick acknowledged the joy surrounding youthful gamers however harassed that seasoned professionals stay very important to sustaining stability and management.
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Carrick on Maguire out of contract in June: “Throughout the squad we all the time need that stability, that youthful potential, pleasure with improvement gamers, and expertise is essential”. “Harry is a powerful character. He’s had an incredible profession up to now, hopefully there’s much more to come back”.
He was very warm in his reward of Maguire, describing him as an “spectacular character” who has loved a “nice profession up to now,” including that he hopes “there’s much more to come back.”
With Maguire’s present deal set to run out in June 2026, discussions are actually energetic relating to a brand new contract. Though a one-year possibility beforehand prolonged his keep by way of the 2025–26 marketing campaign, contemporary negotiations are underway, with studies suggesting a possible two-year extension structured as one assured 12 months plus an possibility.
The talks come at a time when Manchester United are experiencing a noticeable revival beneath Carrick. Since changing Ruben Amorim in January 2026, Carrick has overseen an unbeaten six-match Premier League run, recording 5 wins and one draw together with assertion victories over Manchester Metropolis and Arsenal.
The improved performances have reportedly prompted the membership’s hierarchy to noticeably contemplate making Carrick’s appointment everlasting, notably if he secures Champions League qualification.
Inside Carrington, there’s stated to be a renewed sense of vitality. Senior figures comparable to Maguire, Bruno Fernandes, and Casemiro have thrived beneath Carrick’s calm authority and tactical changes. Softfootball reported that The previous midfielder’s emphasis on readability and belief has helped regular a dressing room that endured turbulence earlier within the season.
Nonetheless, Maguire’s future will not be with out complication. Any renewal would reportedly contain a wage adjustment, together with his wages anticipated to drop from round £190,000 per week to roughly £120,000.
Moreover, INEOS management are believed to be weighing long-term squad planning, probably prioritizing elevated minutes for youthful defenders like Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven subsequent season. Curiosity from AC Milan and different Premier League golf equipment additionally provides one other layer to the scenario.
For now, Carrick’s message is evident: expertise nonetheless issues. Whether or not that interprets into a brand new deal for Maguire might rely not solely on negotiations but additionally on how United’s push for European qualification unfolds within the coming months.
