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6 months ago
22 Harry Maguire doesn’t know yet whether he will be fit enough for Manchester United’s FA Cup final against rivals Man City this weekend.
It’s three days until the final and the nerves are settling in. We must face reality beforehand and accept that City are clear favourites but we have seen this club win previous finals as underdogs.
Moreover, I think everyone can agree that this United side owes something special to the fans for the season we have been subjected to despite the support shown from the stands.
It came as a blow for Erik ten Hag, in a season full of injuries, that Maguire sustained a muscle injury at the beginning of the month.
The club initially confirmed that Maguire would be sidelined for approximately three weeks, which three his preparation for the final in the air.
That said, if Maguire does manager to pass somewhat fit, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Ten Hag risk him knowing the centre-back will put his body on the line for United. He played through knocks against Bournemouth and Coventry City in April prior to his fresh injury in training that confirmed a lay-off.
There is also a possibility that Ten Hag told the player to rest himself for the final. Not to risk more major setbacks, but that is purely based on whether Maguire makes the final against City on Saturday.
Maguire was stripped of the captaincy last season, but that hasn’t stopped him enjoying a renaissance this season.
Speaking to talkSPORT on Wednesday, Maguire gave an update on his fitness situation ahead of the final and said: “Obviously it’s disappointing and a frustrating time to get injured.
“I still don’t know if I’m going to be fit. It’s going to be a late one. I’m hoping to be fit for the squad for the FA Cup final but it will be tough and go.”
Ideally, Ten Hag will be able to start Lisandro Martinez and Maguire for the final, but it’s touch and go with days running out.
Maguire spoke more specifically about his injuries, adding that it’s the first time in his career that he has suffered a few muscle injuries in one season.
“It’s probably the first time in my career that I’ve had a few muscle injuries throughout the season,” said Maguire about his injuries. “It is frustrating and it feels different. You always want to play so maybe I need to look at how I’m managing myself and stuff like that.”
With a bit of luck we’ll have Maguire in the starting line-up to face City at Wembley.
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