Man Utd star reveals how two-word advice from Ruben Amorim convinced him to sign new contract

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire credits a brief yet substantial piece of advice from Ruben Amorim prompted his recent contract extension.

The 31-year-old has been playing his football at Old Trafford since making an £80 million transfer from Leicester City in the summer of 2019. Unfortunately for the Sheffield native, he endured some miserable times in recent years, which saw him become a figure of banter and ridicule, especially amongst rival fanbases who took great pleasure from his recurring blunders at the back.

Nevertheless, the England international has been revitalized since Ruben Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag at the club’s helm, looking both sharp and confident at the back.

The defender’s contract was set to expire at the end of the season, but the two parties have triggered an automatic renewal clause which will keep the player at Carrington at least until June 2026.

Following Sunday’s FA Cup victory over Arsenal, Maguire revealed how Amorim played a key role in his decision to extend his deal. The Portuguese tactician simply told the centre-back that activating the clause should be a ‘no brainer’, which boosted the player’s confidence.

“Ruben said to me that when it came across to him that I had an option [in my contract], he said it was a no brainer for him.” said the Sheffield native via The Mirror.

“It’s given me confidence and belief that they want me at the club and part of this project. He’s really demanding.

“And I’m happy to be here. I want this club to be back fighting for titles and not fighting where we are in the table right now. We’ve got a long way to go.”

Harry Maguire reveals Ruben Amorim role in his contract extension

Maguire feels he has delivered the goods for the majority of his Man Utd stint, but admits his third season was rather poor.

“I think my first couple of years at United was probably the best part of my career. I’m 31 now, coming up to 32 in a couple of months, but I’m getting back to that level. I also think I was at that level last season as well, so it’s been 18 months now where I’d say I’ve been playing consistently well for this club again.

“There’s no doubt I had a tough year in my third season when Ralf took over, I wasn’t at my best, I knew that, I knew I needed to find something to stay at this club because it demands high standards and I feel like I’ve found something. Mentally and physically I feel good.”