Bruno Fernandes reacts to gutted Harry Maguire’s Man United message
Harry Maguire returned to the starting line-up for Man United after his injury, as the side played out a 0-0 draw with Man City.
Man United were forced to settle for a frustrating goalless draw against Man City in the Premier League at Old Trafford.
It marked Maguire’s first start since February, having recovered from a calf injury that sidelined him for several weeks.
Maguire had made a brief return as an emergency striker during United’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on 4 April, but was back in his natural role at the heart of defence for the derby.
While Maguire helped keep a clean sheet against City, he made it clear the result wasn’t what the team had hoped for in a social media message to the fans.
Harry Maguire proves his value to Ruben Amorim amid ongoing contract talks
The 32-year-old posted on Instagram after the draw, saying: “Disappointed we couldn’t get that winner. Focus now on Thursday.”
His message earned plenty of support from teammates, with Bruno Fernandes, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt and Diogo Dalot all liking the post.
Maguire’s return to the starting line-up is a timely boost for Ruben Amorim, with United’s defence continuing to be hit by injuries to the likes of Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven.
He’s shown his value to the team this season, which led to him being handed a short-term contract extension in January.
However, Man United fans questioned Amorim’s decision to extend Maguire’s contract, with many calling for a long-term replacement to be brought in instead.
Football Insider revealed that Maguire is expected to hold talks with Amorim about his future at the club, after only agreeing a one-year extension to avoid leaving on a free.
So far this season, he has made 30 appearances, including 16 starts in the Premier League , most of which have come since Amorim took charge.
| Season statistics | Harry Maguire |
| Appearances | 30 |
| Starts | 22 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Yellow cards | 7 |
Man United face setback in Jarrad Branthwaite pursuit
Defence is expected to be a key area of focus for Amorim this summer, with Man United continuing to monitor Jarrad Branthwaite after failing to sign him last year.
However, Football Insider revealed that United could face another setback, with former chief scout Mick Brown claiming Everton are now preparing to open contract talks Branthwaite.
Whether United push again for a long-term defensive signing remains to be seen, but Maguire has made it clear he still has plenty to offer under Amorim.