Erik ten Hag considering parting ways with Harry Maguire and Fred at Manchester United next summer
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag does not see Harry Maguire and Fred in his long-term plans and is open to letting them leave next summer, according to The Guardian (h/t Metro)
The English centre-back and Brazilian midfielder have impressed the Dutch manager with certain aspects of their game. However, the former Ajax head coach is keen to add more quality to his squad.
As for Maguire, Ten Hag likes his professionalism. But unfortunately, the defender’s ‘sluggish pace’ is seen as a major drawback. As a result, the gaffer wants to bolster the centre-back position.
The England international signed for the Red Devils in the summer of 2019 from Leicester City for £80 million. And he was an important member of the squad.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer handed Maguire the captain’s armband at the turn of the year in 2020. The centre-back had been decent for the club until his performances dipped in the previous campaign.
The England international made several errors at the back last season. United struggled to cope defensively. Unfortunately, we could not compete for titles and missed out on a top-four spot.
With the arrival of Lisandro Martinez in the recent transfer window, Ten Hag has found a new partnership at the back. Raphael Varane has been the preferred choice to play alongside the Argentine defender. Unfortunately, this has relegated our captain to the bench.
On the other hand, Fred has also not been afforded a lot of game time this term. With the arrival of Christina Eriksen and Casemiro in the summer of 2022, the former Shakhtar Donetsk star has fallen down the pecking order. The 29-year-old’s contract expires at the end of the campaign.
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Under Ten Hag, United seem to be taking the right steps. However, the Dutch manager will evidently need the appropriate time and personnel to impose his style of play. Thus, if Maguire and Fred are deemed surplus to requirements, then so be it.
