Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag says he is happy with Harry Maguire despite the defender declining a £30 million move to West Ham United.
Maguire will remain at Old Trafford this season, but his chances of playing regularly look pretty remote.
Ten Hag has changed the team’s defensive line-up, relegating Maguire to fourth-choice centre-back and stripping him of the captaincy.
Maguire will compete for a starting position against Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof.
Ten Hag addressed the media before United’s second Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur tomorrow and said he is happy for the centre-back to fight for his spot.
He said (via Man United’s official website): “Harry is a player for us, and I am happy he is here.
“We need a good squad, and we have four good centre-halves. He has to fight for his position, as everyone in the squad has to.”
With the upcoming season set to involve a demanding schedule of 50 to 60 games, the United manager emphasised the need for a robust squad.
The surprising return of veteran centre-back Jonny Evans to Man United on a short-term contract has ignited discussions about a longer stay.
Ten Hag appears eager to retain the experienced Northern Irishman, who could emerge as a short-term replacement for Martinez.
When questioned about the potential impact of Maguire’s decision on Evans’ situation, Ten Hag responded: “No, it does not affect it. We will see.
“Of course (we want him to stay), otherwise we would not be talking.”
Ten Hag delivered further injury updates stating that Martinez, who went off at half-time in their Premier League clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers, was ready to play.
However, Amad Diallo, Kobbie Mainoo, Tom Heaton and Rasmus Hojlund are still out.
